Updated on August 19, 2024
Preschool can be one of the most exciting and intimidating milestones for you and your toddler. While your child may be excited to meet new teachers that will help your child to learn the alphabet, they may also be fearful of new circumstances. As a parent, you are probably experiencing some of the same emotions as your child. Thankfully there are plenty of helpful steps to take that will help establish a smooth transition into preschool for your child.
During Summer
Play Preschool
Before the school year starts, make going to preschool a fun game. Take turns being the parent, child, and teacher. Practice saying goodbye to mom and dad and perform simple tasks like hanging up your backpack and sitting quietly for circle time. Playing out preschool not only helps children to associate school and fun, but it also helps them get familiar with everyday habits.
Grab a Book
Take a trip to the public library and check out a book that you and your child can read about preschool. This fun summer activity enforces learning and also normalizes the idea of going to school.
Visit the Preschool
Schedule a tour of your preschool and take your child with you. Bringing them into the building and letting them meet future teachers and administrative staff will help ease anxiety when the first day of school comes.
Answer Questions Patiently
Your child is bound to have questions about preschool. They’re entering a new life phase, and curiosity is how children grow. When these questions come up, answer them with patience and kindness. Make sure to reinforce the idea that preschool is fun.
The Night Before Preschool
Check-in
Check-in with your child and see if there are any last-minute questions or concerns they want to voice. If there are some things they want to talk about, try to listen to your child by acknowledging their fears and questions and providing reassuring answers attentively.
Act Normally
Treat things as if they are business as usual. Stick to your typical routine and provide your child with as much normalcy as possible
Sleep Well
Make sure your child gets a full night of restful sleep. Sleeping well will help your child better manage stress and anxiety that may appear throughout the day.
The First Day of Preschool
Review in the Car
In the car, review what your child’s day will be like with them. These helpful and routine reminders will decrease your child’s anxiety. Finally, reiterate that preschool will be fun and that you’re proud of them.
Stay a While
Plan to stay at the school for 15-20 minutes on the first morning, leaving your child. Your presence as a parent will keep the transition smooth for your child.
Stay positive
Staying positive is vital, and if you start to show nervousness, your kid is going to pick up on that and begin to feel uneasy as well. Try not to be sad in front of your preschooler. Tell your preschooler that they have a fun day waiting for them at school and make sure to tell them goodbye before you leave the building.