Transition Tips for Starting Preschool During a Pandemic
A few years ago we shared transition tips for beginning Preschool. Although they still ring true, sending kiddos to school during a global pandemic adds an additional layer of complexity, so we’ve made a few updates.
Whether things have returned mostly to normal for your family, or if this will be your first experience with others after more than a year of physical distancing, we hope these tips can help make your families transition to Preschool as comfortable as possible!
Build Connections
Many schools offer opportunities to visit and spend time together in the classroom before the first day of school. At our school we offer summer park meet ups and casual Pop-In-Play-Dates where families can play, get to know our school co-directors, become comfortable in the classroom, and begin meeting other families and friends.
If your program offers something similar, take advantage of the opportunity so your child can begin forming relationships and getting comfortable at school. If this isn’t possible, try connecting with other incoming families on your own and set up a few park days or play dates. You can also visit the outside of the school, look at pictures from the programs website or social media pages, or make your own picture book to read with your child before school.
Focus on What Is Important
Preschool has always been focused on social and emotional development and this is even more important as we emerge from a year of distancing and isolation.
For many kiddos, preschool will be their first time ever away from their families and with other children. Allow time and grace for the feelings that may come with that and choose programs where the focus is on developing relationships, building family connections, and a commitment to developmentally appropriate practices.
We have all been through a collective trauma these past 15 months and it has affected each family differently. Patience, kindness, and supportive understanding should be at the forefront of each decision for both children and their families and we move forward together.
Be Consistent
Have a consistent little mantra that you use when chatting about school. “I’ll help you wash your hands and give you a BIG hug and kiss. You will have so much fun and I’ll be back to pick you up after the Goodbye Song. Grownups ALWAYS come back!” Children often take their cues from us, so being positive and confident can help them feel positive and confident too.
Set Them Up for Success
Summer can often mean traveling, later bedtimes, and longer days. When possible, spend the weeks leading up to school getting into a predictable routine and making sure everyone is getting enough sleep. Enjoy a healthy breakfast or lunch before heading to school, and dress your child in clothing they can be successful and independent in.
Our school is in California where children over age two are still required to wear masks. If this is the case in your area, help your child prepare by practicing ahead of time and finding a mask that they are comfortable wearing for the length of their school day.
Have a Plan
A quick and cheerful goodbye often works best for many, but not all, children. If your plan is to drop off, be ready to lovingly say a cheerful goodbye, even if there are tears, and let the teacher help your child inside. Chances are that within a few minutes they will be happily engaged.
Preschool Teachers are experts at warm hugs, building genuine connections, and helping children feel comfortable and supported in their new environment. They can be a great resource and are happy to offer tips specific to your child or situation.
At our school we do our best to call or send a quick text to let parents know their kiddo is doing well after a tearful goodbye, and we also welcome parents to call and check in too. We’ve been on the other side of the situation and know how hard it is to drop off a worried child.
Most importantly, never, ever sneak out! It may seem easier in the moment, but it can build distrust and fear, so we ask that families always say goodbye!
Be on Time
Arrive to school on time so your child can come in with their friends. Arriving after everyone is inside and settled can be difficult on young children. Be on time for pick up as well. A few minutes can feel like an eternity to a child, especially if they have watched all their friends leave and are worried you may not be coming for them.
Have an After Drop Off Plan for You Too
If the idea of dropping your child off for the first time makes you feel a bit weepy, plan ahead for what you will do after drop off too. Go for a walk, meet other parents at coffee, head in to work, enjoy some alone time running errands, etc. Having something to look forward to is good for adults too!
You Know Your Child Best
Like all things with children, there is never a one size fits all approach to any situation. Every child is an individual and each families situation is unique. Teachers have years of experience with helping families navigate this transition and are a wonderful resource to the families in their class. If you have questions specific to your child, it is always acceptable to reach out to them for guidance.
Practice Patience and Flexibility
Preschool during a pandemic means new, and frequently changing, public health guidelines. Be patient with school leadership as they adjust to changing circumstances that are often completely out of their control. Keep up to date on the schools health policies and do your best to follow them. Schools staying open and healthy during the pandemic really depends on families and staff working together as a team.
Enjoy the Journey
Preschool is a truly magical time and there is so much joy in seeing a child beam with pride and excitement as they play in the classroom and fall in love with learning. We wish you and your children a safe, healthy, and playful year ahead!
Written and shared by the staff at Valley Parent Preschool in Danville, California.
Image is of a child painting their feet and legs with vibrant purple paint.