Your toddler’s first day of preschool can be an emotional rollercoaster for both you and your little one. It’s natural for you to be anxious about how your toddler will adapt to this new environment. Here are some tips and tricks to help you manage your anxiety and support your toddler during their first step away from you.

 

1. Prepare yourself first:

Recognize and accept that you are in fact anxious. Acknowledge that it is okay to feel a mix of emotions as your child starts preschool. Remember that anxiety is contagious, so staying calm and positive is important.

 

2. Communicate with your Preschool:

Get in touch with the preschool staff to understand their daily routine, policies, and any particular protocols for the first day. This will help you and your little one be prepared for what’s coming. Establishing a connection with your toddler’s teachers can also provide comfort and a sense of familiarity.

 

3. Visit the Preschool Beforehand:

Visit the preschool with your toddler before their first day. Familiarize yourselves with the environment and the staff. Encourage your child to explore and engage with the new surroundings, this will ease their transition when THE day arrives!

 

4. Establish a Consistent Morning Routine:

Consistency and structure helps everyone, including your child, feel more secure and prepared. Talk to your toddler and engage them in a structured morning routine starting weeks before and leading up to the first day of preschool. Set specific times for waking up, getting ready, eating breakfast, etc.

 

5. Talk to your toddler:

Talk to your toddler about the your own or someone else’s positive experiences in school- a sibling, a cousin they love. There are also many children’s books and songs available that address starting preschool. Talking about these things can help your child understand what to expect and normalize the experience.

 

6. Pretend Play:

Pretend play provides opportunities for children to practice social interactions, cooperation, and empathy. Engage in scenarios that mimic preschool activities like sharing, saying bye to you and hello to friends and teachers, etc.  This playful approach can help calm them and promote a sense of familiarity.

 

7. Practice Separation:

Help your toddler gain confidence in handling temporary separations- you can do this my leaving them with a trusted family member- start with short periods of time and gradually increase it. Be on time to pick them up- it is important for children to know that you will be there. Gradually introduce short periods of separation before the first day of preschool. 

 

8. Stay Positive and Provide Reassurance:

When the first day arrives, keep calm- anxiety is contagious, remember? Make the goodbye quick but reassuring, reminding them that you will be there to pick them up as soon as school gets over.

 

The first day of preschool is a BIG milestone for parents and for some, it can be filled with anxiety.

However, by following these powerful strategies, you can regulate your parental anxiety and help your toddler embark on this new journey confidence and ease. Remember, every child takes their own time and space to adapt, so be patient, supportive, and celebrate every tiny step your child takes towards independence and growth.