Book excerpt: Caillou is going to day care for the first time. Naturally, he would prefer to stay home with Mommy and Daddy rather than face this unfamiliar world. However, with the help of Florence, one of the day care assistants, Caillou eases into his new environment and soon makes a friend. Around three years of age, a child needs playmates. He wants to become more independent, which means he must leave the protective security of his parents, his house, and his family. Often this separation occurs in connection with day care. Leaving the security of his family unit is difficult and frightening for the child and it is important to help him prepare for this first step toward greater independence.