It is a big day for you and an even bigger day for your little one. Your child’s first day in day care may well be something that you’ve been counting down to since they were born. Now it’s here, you’re probably filled with a mixture of emotions. You may feel sad that your baby is growing up so quickly. There may be some trepidation about your child being away from you for so long. You may worry about how your child will react to being without you and how they will find being in a strange place. As Texas continues to reopen, if you’re sending your child to in-person preschool for the first time don’t worry! Some of the best tips I utilized when my daughters were preschool age still apply!

In this article, we’ll talk you through some tips for your child’s first day of in-person preschool. 

preschool

Getting Your Child Ready For Their First Day 

Ahead of the big day, let them know what is going to happen. Talk them through the routine and what they can expect when they are there. Go into as much detail as possible. Try your best to get them as excited about going as possible. 

In the weeks running up to the big day, get them used to any changes that need to be made to their sleep routine. 

Walk or drive them to the preschool. If you are able to take them inside, you should do this so that they get a feel for what to expect. You may be able to send them for a taster day before they are due to start. 

Trust Your Child’s Carers

When it comes to leaving your child at day care for the first time, you need to fully trust the people who will be taking care of your little one. If you are anxious about leaving them there, then this will rub off on your child and it will make them anxious too. 

Make The First Day Special 

On their first day, make sure that you make a fuss of your child and make the day as special as possible. Buy them a gift to celebrate their first day. New outfits can be exciting but not as exciting as a new backpack. 

Allow Plenty of Time

On the first morning at day care make sure that you allow plenty of time to get ready and to get there. This may mean getting your little one up slightly earlier than you usually would so that they can adjust to the day before it is time to leave. 

There may be strong emotions on the first day and having the extra time will give you chance to deal with these without being late. 

Create a Goodbye Routine 

When it comes to leaving your child, create a very specific routine for saying goodbye to them. This could mean taking them in, hanging up their coat for them and then giving them a hug and a kiss goodbye and saying something that is personal to the both of you. Having a routine such as this will give your child something to look forward to as you leave them.

P.S. This post is a partner collaboration.