If you spend even a few minutes watching young children, one thing becomes clear pretty quickly: they are always exploring something. A baby might spend several minutes studying their own hands, while a toddler might fill and dump the same basket of blocks over and over again. To adults it can look simple—or even repetitive—but for young children, this is learning.

It’s important to remember that all children develop at their own pace. Think of each child like a kernel of popcorn; it’s impossible to know which one will pop next, but with the right conditions and environment, they all eventually do. In the same way, children grow and develop in their own time and often excel in different areas.

Sending your little one off to daycare for the first time is often scary—but it shouldn’t be! Having the proper tools in your belt will help you better prepare for your child’s first day, and give you some much needed peace of mind.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when searching for childcare.