Preschool Readiness: How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself) for the Big Transition

Starting preschool is a huge milestone - a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes jitters (for both children and parents). While it's a big step, there are simple ways to set your child up for success, while also easing your own worries at the same time.

Here's how you can prepare your little one (and yourself!) for this new adventure.

1. Start Talking About Preschool Early - Begin the conversation a few weeks (or even months) before your child's first day. Keep it positive and simple: "You'll get to play with new friends, learn fun things, and have your very own teacher." Avoid focusing on "leaving home" and instead emphasize the new and exciting experiences they'll have.

2. Visit the School Together - If possible, take your child on a tour of the preschool before their first day. Walk through the classroom, meet the teachers, and point out the toys, books, and play areas. Seeing the space ahead of time makes it feel familiar and helps reduce first-day anxiety.

3. Read Books About Starting School - Stories help children process new experiences. Some favorites are:

   The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

   The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

   Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins

   Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes by Eric Litwin

   Reading together gives you a chance to talk about feelings and answer any questions your child may have about school.

4. Practice Independence - Preschool is often a child's first taste of being in a group setting. You can help by practicing simple self-help skills at home. Washing hands, putting on and taking off their shoes or jacket, opening lunch containers, and saying "please" and "thank you" are all areas to focus on. Praise their efforts - all small wins build confidence!

5. Adjust Your Routine Gradually - About a week or two before preschool begins, start shifting wake-up times and bedtime to match drop-off/pick-up times. Practice morning routines like getting dressed, eating breakfast, and packing a backpack. Consistency at home helps mornings feel smoother when school begins.

6. Prepare for Goodbyes - Separation anxiety is normal, for both the kiddos and the parents. Before the big day talk about how drop-off and goodbyes will work. Practice a quick cheerful goodbye routine at home. On the first day, keep goodbyes short and positive, and reassure that you will be back after ___________ (story time, lunch, nap, work, etc.). Children take their emotional cues from you, calm confidence helps them feel secure.

7. Manage Your Own Emotions - This milestone is often just as emotional for parents as it is for children. It's okay to feel teary or nervous - it just means you care. Remind yourself that preschool is a safe and nurturing space for your child. These new experiences help them build social, emotional and learning skills that last a lifetime.

Preschool is more than a first step in education. It's a foundation for confidence, curiosity and life long learning. By preparing ahead of time with conversations, routines and lots of reassurance, you're giving your child the gift of a smooth positive, start. Sure, there may still be a few tears at drop-off, so remember that adjustment takes time. With your consistent support, your child will be running into preschool ahead of you in no time!