Making the First Day of Preschool a Little Less Scary (and a Lot More Sweet)
Ahhh… the first day of preschool. Just saying it brings up all the feels, right?
Preschool parents can find themselves feeling a wide variety of emotions at back to school time. Whether it’s your first time dropping off a little one or your fifth, back to school can hit you in the heart. It’s a strange mix of excitement, nerves, and maybe even a few tears (from you or them!).
So much of what we feel during back to school season is really tied to our own memories. The butterflies, the smells of crayons, picking out backpacks and pencil boxes. That’s why we are so excited for our own children to have the best preschool experience possible.
Here are some simple, back to school tips for preschool parents. As a mom of three and a veteran preschool teacher, I understand what it’s like all around.
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Back to School Tips for Preschool Parents
Tune into Your Child’s Emotions
Little ones are like emotional sponges. They pick up on our energy, even when we think we’re hiding it well.
If you’re feeling anxious or a little weepy (been there!), try to shift your focus onto what your child is feeling. Ask them questions. Let them talk. Validate any nerves. Then, help sprinkle in some excitement.
Just be present. That alone helps more than you know.
Talk About it!
The new backpack. Playing on the playground. The incredibly fun preschool activities they will get to do each day.
Preschool can feel like a grand adventure when we help paint the picture. Talk about what they might see, do, and discover. The caring teachers, soon to be friends, exciting toys, or the classroom decor.
You could even make a “Countdown to Preschool” craft to build anticipation. (Bonus: it gives you something to look forward to together.)
Whatever you think of to talk about, the weeks leading up to that first day offer meaningful opportunities to connect with our kids. It also gives us the chance to discuss any worries our children might have, as well as build enthusiasm.
Read Some Great Books Together
Books are magical. They let kids explore big feelings through someone else’s story, whether it’s a nervous bunny or a brave llama.
A few gems to try:
- First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
- Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
- Pete the Kitty’s First Day of Preschool by James and Kimberly Dean
Snuggle up and let the words open the door for conversations about feelings, bravery, and saying goodbye. See all of our favorite books about going to school.
Practice Back to School Routines
Start practicing preschool routines a week or two before the big day. This might include:
- Earlier bedtimes and wake-ups
- Packing a lunch together
- Laying out clothes the night before
- Doing a “pretend school day” at home
These simple shifts can make that first morning feel much smoother and provide some anticipation! When children know what to expect, they feel more secure.
Keep Drop Offs Short and Sweet
When the big day comes, try not to linger at the classroom door even though I know you wish you could watch all of the firsts that happen in preschool.
If your child has separation anxiety (or if there are tears), know this: preschool teachers are absolute pros at helping kids settle in. They’ve supported countless families through this transition, and they’re ready for yours too.
A confident goodbye with a big hug and a smile often goes a long way.
It’s usually best to make that first day transition quick so children can move on to their first circle time, their first welcome song, and their first of many school adventures.
Stay Connected in Thoughtful Little Ways
Even when you’re apart, there are lots of simple ways to help your child feel your presence:
- Leave a little note in their lunchbox
- Tuck a tiny drawing in their backpack
- Send a special rock as a pocket treasure
These small tokens can serve as a sweet reminder that your love is always nearby.
Preschool is a big milestone, for them and for you. These little steps create a sense of safety, joy, and wonder that sets the tone for the whole year.
If you have a tip that’s worked wonders for you, I’d love to hear it!
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I really appreciate what you had to say here about preparing your kids for preschool and what to expect. My wife is really nervous for our boy but I think that he will do just fine! One thing that you said that I thought was interesting was focusing on our son’s emotions and make sure that he is not worried or sad about going to school. Thanks again!