SHARED by: Staff at York Avenue Preschool

As we embark on the start of the school year, we wanted to provide families with some suggested strategies to help your child relax and look forward to going to school each day!

Do: Keep goodbyes short and sweet. In doing so, you convey the message that you have confidence in your child’s ability to cope.

Don’t: Hover. You child will sense anxiety which will make it more difficult for him/her to calm down.

Do: Tuck a family picture or a loving reminder away in your child’s backpack, for him/her to look at later in the day.

Don’t: Sneak out. You want to build trust with you child during drop-off.

Do: Develop loving goodbye routines. A kiss and hug or high-five routine is a fun way to start the day.

Don’t: Bargain or bribe your child to behave. It’s healthy for him/her to express their feelings and is part of the separation process.

Do: Send clear messages. Your child needs to know that you expect them to go to school no matter how much they put up a fight.

Don’t: Take your child home. If you do, this sends the message that if your child cries enough, they will get to leave.

Do: Arrange play dates with other children in the class. This allows your child to form friendships and will make the transition easier.

Don’t: Get upset. By keeping an upbeat and positive attitude about your child’s school, teacher and friends, you’ll help them feel safe and enjoy their time at school.

Do: Keep a consistent routine. Children find comfort in knowing what to expect. It is very important that you arrive on time for both pick-up and drop-off.

Don’t: Discuss problems with the teacher in the morning. This can prolong the separation and make it more difficult for the child to transition.

Do: Involve the teacher. Having someone greet and engage your child will ease the transition.

Don’t: Be surprised if separation anxietu reoccurs after holidays or sick days.

Believe in your child’s ability to make the transition successfully. Separation anxiety means that a strong and loving bond exists between you and your child. Keeping a positive attitude and communicating with your child’s teacher is the best way to ensure a smooth transition for all!