Transitioning to Preschool

Question:My child has never been to school before. How to I prepare him for his first preschool experience.


Answer:
Your child should have an opportunity to visit the school before his first day. If possible, take pictures of your child at the school and the teachers. You can put these photos in a small album that your child can look through whenever he wishes. The school should have some type of orientation for new children. There are as many ways to do this as there are schools. Some children come for a one-on-one visit, some schools have a day for new children, some schools phase new children in over several days. Ask your child’s school what their process is.

Ask your child’s teacher what your child can expect on the first day. You can share that with your child. Use positive statements when talking to your child and keep it simple. “You teacher is Miss Sally. She said you will sing songs, have snack, and play outside. You’ll meet some new children. It will be a great adventure.” Avoid statements that plant negative seeds such as, “Don’t worry. I’ll come back.” Let your child know when school will begin about a week before. Young children can often relate to “sleeps.” Five more sleeps until you go to school. Be sure your child has a good night of sleep before school. If you have to wake your child, he’s not receiving enough sleep. Let your child know that you will not be staying with him but that you will come back at pick up time.

It is best if your child can leave you rather than you leave the child. If a school has “drop off” service, use it. Make your good- bye short, a quick hug, kiss, and cheery “Good-bye.” You may want to give your child a picture of you or the family to keep with him. If your child is crying when you leave, be sure to be a few minutes early for pick up to avoid the chance that he may be the last one picked up.

Give your child about two weeks to adjust to the new routine. Always be cheery and upbeat about school.