Hi Erna,
I am in total agreement with these smart ladies! I am also a daycare provider in business for the past 18 years. The best way for you to handle this is to start talking about your schedule from the moment your day begins. For example, "Good morning lovebug! We are going to change your diaper, and then after that, we are going to get dressed, eat a little breakfast and then we are going to C.'s house where you are going to see your friends and play all day while Mommy is at work." While you are driving to your daycare provider's home, talk about the buildings you pass everyday, talk about where you turn the corner, etc. By doing this, you are creating structure and schedule. He will know exactly what is coming up next, he will be prepared for it and then when you get to your provider's home, give a quick kiss and hug and tell him you will see him after nap and snack. Leave immediately. Prolonging your departure will only make things much, much worse. Many times I will tell parents to wait at the top of the stairs and listen after the kids think they have left. For the most part, the kids quit fussing very quickly and get involved in an activity. Your daycare provider should be guiding him toward something to do. Puzzles and books are a great way to distract someone immediately.
When I have kids that have separation issues, I always go over the schedule with them, talking about all the things they do in the morning to prepare for daycare and then what we will do during the day. Kids thrive on schedules and boundries.
Before long, your child will be adjusted to his schedule and you may have a difficult time prying him away from his friends at daycare!
Good luck and let us know how things are working out.
C.