Departure in early childhood development refers to the process of a child leaving their primary caregiver or home environment for an extended period of time. This could include starting daycare or preschool, moving to a new home, or being separated from their caregiver for other reasons. Departure can be a challenging and emotional experience for young children, as they may feel anxious, scared, or sad about being away from their familiar surroundings and loved ones. It is important for caregivers to provide support and reassurance during this transition to help the child feel safe and secure in their new environment.