Preparing for Preschool

Getting Ready for This Important Transition

Preschool Parade: A celebration of books, activities, and ideas for parents of young children by Author Amy Houts

That first day is so exciting! (Photo by Emily Bush)

Preparing for preschool brings a mix of emotions for both children and parents. Buying a new backpack and wearing a new outfit might bring smiles, but being away from Mommy or Daddy might bring tears. I remember those tender goodbyes not only with our two daughters, but also when I was a graduate assistant at Northwest Missouri State University’s early childhood learning center. Here are some ways to help you and your child make this important transition beforehand and on the first day.

There are several things you can do before the big first day.

· Visit the school: Preschools host open houses ahead of time for parents to tour classrooms and play areas to see what the school has to offer. Preschools often have orientation days, too, close to school opening. Visiting is a great way to prepare.

· Community: It’s fun if your child knows someone at school, a friend from your neighborhood, playgroup, or church. But if not, know that children often make new friends quickly and enjoy their new environment.

· Read: There are a number of picture books focusing on the first day of preschool. Check out what your library or bookstore offers. Reading about preschool will help your child know what happens there. One book we love is The Kissing Hand where a young racoon’s mother kisses his hand to reassure him her love is always with him, even at school. It reminded me that God’s love is always with us, too.

The picture book, The Kissing Hand, reassures children their mother’s love is always with them. (photo by Nick Bush)

· Dramatic play: After you read, you might try acting out some of the scenes from the book. You can be the teacher and ask your child to sit “crisscross applesauce” on the rug for story time and “keep your hands to yourself.” Or they might want to be the teacher. Encourage them to be the “line leader” (first in line) on the way to the bathroom or to play outside. Also, to say good-bye and wave. See you when school is over!

· Discussion: Talk about what a special place preschool is, how they will learn new things and meet new friends. Tell them how you chose this special place to be.

· Backpack: Pack a backpack together. Show your child, for example, the change of clothes (just in case they need it), a water bottle, box of tissues or other items their preschool requested you bring. Include a family photograph.

· Family photo: Ask your child to pick out a family photo to take with them to school. Laminate or place in a plastic sleeve to protect against damage. Secure the photo in a backpack pocket or tape it inside where the photo is easily seen. Seeing their family will comfort your child and help with separation anxiety.

The first day of preschool:

Start the day with a good morning routine by waking up with plenty of time to dress, eat breakfast, and get to preschool on time. Keep a positive happy tone. It was hard for me to let go and an emotional day, although I tried not to show it. Plan to stay at least a few minutes if your child wants or needs you to. During this time, your child can put their backpack in their cubby. You can show their teacher the family photo in your child’s backpack and explain your child might want to look at it throughout the day. You might wait until your child starts their first activity before you leave but say goodbye so they know you are going. Hug, kiss, or high-five, whatever you usually do. If your child cries, you can decide to stay longer or to leave. Know children often stop crying and start playing right after a parent is out of sight. Know your child’s teacher will take good care of them.

Preparing for preschool helps your child have the best experience. (Photo by Emily Bush)

Set the tone of your child’s school days by valuing the gift of learning, the joy of friendship, and the loving support of family.

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Thank you!

Amy Houts is an award-winning author of 100+ picture books for children. She was a graduate assistant at the Northwest Missouri State University early childhood learning center (now named the Phyllis and Richard Leet Center for Children and Families). Amy worked as the lead preschool teacher at Head Start in Maryville, Missouri. To find out more about Amy and her books, visit her here.