How to Prepare My Child for Daycare This Winter: What Parents Need to Know 💡

November 12, 2024

Winter in Florida may not bring snow, but it does bring cooler mornings, unpredictable weather, and the infamous sniffles. If your little one is starting daycare this winter, you’ll want to make sure they’re ready for the transition—and you’re armed with tips to keep them comfy, healthy, and happy.


Here’s everything you need to know about prepping your child for daycare in Florida’s version of winter.



1. Layer Like a Pro

Florida winters can be 60 degrees at drop-off and 80 degrees by pickup. So, dress your child in layers they can peel off as the day warms up. Think:


  • Light long-sleeve shirt
  • Cozy hoodie or zip-up jacket
  • Breathable pants


Pro tip : Label everything. Jackets and sweaters are daycare Houdinis—they disappear without a trace unless their name is boldly written inside.


2. Boost Their Immune System

Let’s face it—winter brings a spike in sniffles. Help your child stay healthy by:


  • Feeding them immune-boosting foods like citrus fruits, yogurt, and leafy greens. These immune-boosting foods can be incorporated into their breakfast.
  • Sticking to a good sleep routine is key to keeping your child’s body strong and their mind sharp. Quality sleep during their early years is crucial for hitting developmental milestones and supporting their overall growth—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
  • Washing hands : Teach your child how to scrub for 20 seconds (singing “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” helps). Daycare staff will reinforce it, but extra practice at home is a win.


3. Prep for Sick Days

Even with all the prep, colds happen. Stock up on essentials like children’s medicine, tissues, and a thermometer so you’re not scrambling at 2 a.m. Make sure you:


  • Know your daycare’s sick-day policies (some require 24-hour symptom-free before returning).
  • Have a backup plan for childcare if your little one has to stay home.


4. Pack Smart

Make their daycare bag winter-ready with:


  • A water bottle to keep them hydrated (even in cooler weather).
  • A backup set of clothes (including socks—because puddles exist).
  • Weather-appropriate extras like a lightweight hat or blanket for naptime if their classroom gets chilly.

5. Stay in the Know

Florida winters can still mean rapid temperature shifts and occasional storms. Stay informed by:


  • Signing up for your daycare’s weather alerts or updates.
  • Making sure your contact info is up to date in case of early closures or emergencies.

Winter in Florida? Bring It On!

Daycare in winter doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right prep, your child will stay cozy, healthy, and ready to make new friends (and maybe learn how to share…we can hope!).


At Early Education Station, we’re here to make the transition smooth and exciting for both you and your child. Our programs are designed to keep your little one engaged, happy, and thriving all year round.


Schedule a visit today and see why parents love choosing us!


By ELLSA Schools April 18, 2025
The early years of a child’s life are filled with rapid growth and discovery, laying the groundwork for the kind of person they’ll become. At Early Education Station Orlando, we believe that education during these foundational years is more than just preparation for elementary school—it’s an investment in a child’s entire future. And when that investment is made with intentional care, guided learning, and emotional nurturing, it builds the skills that last a lifetime. In this post, we explore the far-reaching impact of quality early childhood education and how our local children in Orlando are not just learning—they're shaping the future. The Science of Early Development Years of research in developmental psychology and neuroscience have confirmed what educators have long suspected—early experiences shape brain architecture. In fact, 90% of a child’s brain develops by the age of five. During these critical years, the brain is forming the neural pathways that support everything from emotional regulation to problem-solving and social connection. At Early Education Station Orlando, our curriculum is designed to align with this scientific understanding. Each interaction, each activity, and each daily routine is an opportunity to reinforce brain development. We emphasize nurturing relationships, language-rich environments, and hands-on exploration to support every child’s cognitive and emotional growth. Building the Foundations of Future Success Success in adulthood—academically, socially, and professionally—can often be traced back to the skills developed during early childhood. These include: Executive Function Skills : Such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, and self-control. These skills allow children to focus, manage tasks, and make thoughtful decisions. Social-Emotional Competence : The ability to understand one’s emotions, interact well with others, and form healthy relationships. Early Literacy and Numeracy : Exposure to letters, numbers, sounds, and stories gives children a head start in reading and math. Resilience and Confidence : Through trial and error, encouragement, and success, young children learn to persevere and believe in themselves. Our educators design experiences that promote these abilities in ways that feel natural and joyful to children—through play, music, movement, conversation, and imaginative learning. How Local Education Makes a Big Difference While early education is powerful everywhere, a program rooted in the Orlando community adds even more value. Children benefit when they learn in a space that reflects their local culture, community, and environment. At Early Education Station Orlando, our curriculum incorporates elements that connect children to the world around them. Whether it’s learning about local wildlife during nature-based activities or celebrating Orlando’s rich cultural diversity during classroom events, our students are learning to appreciate and engage with their own community. This connection fosters a strong sense of identity and belonging—critical elements for future leadership and citizenship. Stories That Show the Impact We’ve seen countless examples of children who start at Early Education Station and go on to excel both socially and academically. One recent graduate, Mia, began our program as a shy toddler. Through our supportive classroom environment, she blossomed into a confident communicator, comfortable leading circle time and asking questions during science exploration. Another student, Jaxon, entered our program struggling with motor delays. Through play-based physical activities and fine motor-focused art projects, he developed coordination and confidence—and his parents now describe him as “a little athlete in training.” These are just a few of the many stories that illustrate how early education can alter a child’s life trajectory. Our alumni have moved on to Orlando’s top elementary schools, often noted by their teachers as “leaders,” “helpers,” and “innovative thinkers.” Parental Involvement: A Cornerstone of Success No early education program can succeed without the partnership of families. At Early Education Station Orlando, we take pride in fostering strong relationships with parents. We offer frequent communication, parent-teacher conferences, and resources to help reinforce learning at home. We believe that when families feel seen, supported, and engaged, children thrive. Our educators serve not only as teachers but also as collaborators in each family’s educational journey. Our Long-Term Vision for Orlando’s Children Our commitment isn’t just to the children who walk through our doors—it’s to the entire future of Orlando. We believe that nurturing young minds today will lead to a stronger, more empathetic, and more innovative community tomorrow. That’s why we continuously evaluate and evolve our approach, drawing from the latest research and best practices. From expanding our enrichment offerings to deepening our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, we are always working to ensure that every child receives the best possible foundation. Conclusion The impact of early childhood education isn’t seen in a single day or year—it unfolds over a lifetime. At Early Education Station Orlando, we’re proud to provide a place where children’s first steps into the world of learning are full of joy, wonder, and meaning. Our classrooms are not just spaces for school readiness—they are the launchpads for future success, empathy, leadership, and lifelong love of learning. Because when Orlando’s youngest learners thrive, so does our entire community.
A group of children are posing for a picture in front of a tent.
By Masiel Perez March 21, 2025
Discover the benefits of preschool summer camps! Keep your child engaged with fun, educational activities that promote learning through play. Explore top programs today!
Three young girls are looking through a magnifying glass in the grass.
By Masiel Perez March 21, 2025
Looking for the best daycare summer camp in Orlando? Discover top Orlando summer camps 2025 with fun, safe, and educational activities for preschoolers. Enroll today!
A group of children are raising their hands to answer a question in a classroom.
By Melanie Rivera February 18, 2025
Top Tips for Choosing and Getting Into an Elite Orlando Childcare Program – Expert advice on selecting the right center and securing a spot early.
A family is sitting on a couch reading a book together.
By Melanie Rivera February 18, 2025
Not sure if daycare is year-round? We break down daycare schedules, including holidays, summer care, and flexible options.
By Melanie Rivera November 12, 2024
Not sure when to enroll your little one in childcare? You’re not alone! We break down the pros and cons of starting childcare at different stages—from infant care to preschool. Whether you’re heading back to work or your child is ready for new adventures, this guide will help you make the best decision for your family. 💛
By Melanie Rivera November 12, 2024
Discover the unique advantages of enrolling early in the year! Starting in winter allows children a smoother transition, with quieter classrooms and more individualized attention. From building social skills to preparing for academic success, early enrollment offers countless developmental benefits that lay the foundation for lifelong learning. Dive into why winter might be the perfect season to kickstart your child’s educational journey.
More Posts