Starting preschool is a huge milestone. And each experience is unique – for some families, the child walks into class with their head held high without even looking back for a wave. For others, the transition might not be quite as smooth. There may be tears for all involved, which is no fun for anyone (though it is quite normal).
Some children have a hard time adjusting to new situations, especially new daycares, and places where they’ll be spending a lot of time. Fortunately, there are some great steps you can take to get them used to the idea of a new childcare facility. They’ll be buzzing with excitement about preschool before you know it!
Start Talking About Daycare With Your Child Early
One of our favorite tips for helping your little one adjust to anything new is to talk about it as soon as you know about it. Making sure children have a lot of time to think about new possibilities and adjust to new ideas gives them the chance to discuss any potential apprehension. However, always wait until you know the details of the daycare before telling them so you have concrete answers to their questions.
Make sure to use positive language to build excitement and reduce fear of the unknown, but be honest that it might be a little scary at first. If possible, visit the daycare with your child beforehand so they can see all the different classes, meet teachers, interact with other kids, and get excited about all the fun activities they’ll do.
Read Books About Preschool with Your Child
There are so many benefits of reading to young children! Many children’s books are designed to help address big feelings and transitions, so finding some great books about starting preschool can help them get used to the idea. Stories normalize the experience and help children understand what to expect.
After reading, try role-playing daycare scenarios with your little one using their favorite toys. Role-play and pretend play can help reinforce what they’ve learned and make it all seem more familiar.
Establish a Routine Early
Children thrive on routine, and establishing a consistent schedule will help them feel secure during this big transition. Before your little one actually begins their preschool journey, try to establish a morning routine that mimics what their childcare days will look like. This might look like:
Waking up at a specific time
Having a special breakfast
Getting dressed in their school clothes
At the end of your morning routine, establish a goodbye ritual for childcare drop-off. Whether it’s a hug, high-five, or secret handshake, having a consistent way to say goodbye can provide an additional level of comfort to kids. Make it short and sweet, reassure them that you’ll be back to pick them up at the end of the day, and remind them of all the fun they’ll have.
Easing the Transition to Daycare
Starting at a new childcare center is a big step, but with the right preparation, routine, and support, it can be one of the most exciting. Remember that this is a learning experience for both of you, and it’s okay if there are bumps along the way. With your patience and positivity, your little one will grow their confidence, develop independence, and truly blossom in their new childcare setting.