Whether your child is starting preschool for the first time or returning after a break, this transition can be difficult. We understand the significance of this change and are here to support you. Our students are encouraged to meet teachers and staff before their first day and get a sneak-peek of their classroom. We are here to answer your questions about the upcoming school year and are prepared to welcome you and your child on your first day back. Here are some additional ways to help make this transition as seamless as possible that you can do at home.

Establish routine.

Young children thrive on routine. A week or two before school starts, gradually adjust their daily schedule to mimic the school routine. Wake your child and put them to bed during the same times as their school-year schedule. Set regular meal and nap times to help them get used to the structure they’ll encounter at school. Be sure to allow for plenty of sleep as new school days can prove to be exhausting for children in the beginning. Remind your child what to do if they need to go potty at school and practice those steps.

Visit our school!

Schedule a time to visit our school with your child before the first day. Seeing the school and classroom and meeting their teacher helps reduce anxiety and provides a sense of familiarity.

Talk about school positively.

Build excitement by highlighting fun activities they’ll get to do, friends they’ll make, and all the new things they’ll learn. Encourage your child to ask questions and express any worries they may have about starting school.

Provide assurance.

Answer their questions and address their worries. Let your child know that you (or another loved one) will always come back to pick them up. It may also be helpful to provide your child with a timeframe that they will understand. For example, “I’ll pick you up after nap time when the lights are back on.” Be careful not to be too rigid in the time you are setting as unexpected deterrents could arise.

Prepare a comfort item.

Having something from home can provide emotional security during moments of separation whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal, a small photo of the family, or a comforting blanket. Involve your child in selecting which item to bring.

Read books about going to school.

Some of our favorite books to help with this transition are: Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins, Llama, Llama Back to School by Anna Dewdney, and The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.

Celebrate the transition.

Have an end-of-summer picnic or pool party, then a celebratory new school year surprise. This could be a special meal or shopping for a back-to-school outfit or shoes.

Be patient and supportive.

Every child adjusts to change at their own pace. Provide plenty of reassurance and encouragement during this transition period. Celebrate small victories and offer comfort during moments of anxiety. Remember, each day will get a little easier and we are here to support you each step of the way!

To learn more about how we help our students transition to a new school year, contact us today!