Starting preschool is a significant milestone in your child's life—and yours. Whether your little one is entering our new Stockton campus or any early childhood program, this transition represents an exciting step toward independence and growth. At the same time, it can bring a mix of emotions for both children and parents: excitement, curiosity, and perhaps a touch of anxiety about the unknown.
At Meadowlark Schools, we've guided countless families through this important transition. We understand that each child approaches new experiences differently, and we're committed to partnering with you to make this journey as smooth and positive as possible.
1. Prepare Weeks Before the First Day
A successful transition begins well before your child's first day. By laying groundwork in advance, you can help your child build confidence and anticipation rather than apprehension.
Establish Consistent Routines
Children thrive on predictability, especially during times of change. In the weeks leading up to starting school:
- Gradually adjust wake-up, meal, and bedtime schedules to match school day timing
- Practice your morning routine, including breakfast and getting dressed
- Create simple visual schedules showing the day's flow (wake up, breakfast, school, pick-up, dinner, bedtime)
Young children gain security from knowing what comes next. When routines are consistent, children can focus their energy on adapting to new experiences rather than wondering what will happen next.
Read Books About Starting School
Books provide a wonderful way to introduce the concept of school in a low-pressure way. Some favorites we recommend include:
- "The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn
- "Llama Llama Misses Mama" by Anna Dewdney
- "Maisy Goes to Preschool" by Lucy Cousins
- "The Pigeon HAS to Go to School!" by Mo Willems
Reading these stories opens opportunities for your child to ask questions and express feelings about starting school. Listen carefully to their thoughts and validate any concerns while emphasizing the positive aspects of the new adventure ahead.
Visit the Campus and Meet Teachers
Familiarity reduces anxiety. If possible:
- Attend pre-opening events at our Stockton campus
- Schedule a personal tour of the facility
- Visit the playground when school is not in session
- Look at photos of the classroom and teachers together at home
Practice Independence Skills
Build your child's confidence by practicing skills they'll use at school:
- Opening lunch containers and water bottles
- Putting on and taking off jackets or sweaters
- Using the bathroom independently (as developmentally appropriate)
- Asking for help when needed
- Taking turns and sharing with others
Remember to celebrate these growing abilities! Each new skill mastered is a building block of confidence.
2. The Day Before: Final Preparations
The day before preschool begins is an ideal time for final preparations that involve your child in the process.
Pack Together
Invite your child to help prepare their belongings:
- Choose a special backpack or tote bag together
- Pack a change of clothes they've selected
- Select a comfort item if allowed (small stuffed animal or family photo)
- Prepare lunch together if they'll be bringing food from home
This participation gives children a sense of ownership in the process and provides concrete reminders of what will happen the next day.
Talk About What to Expect
Have a calm, positive conversation about what will happen the next day:
- Who will take them to school
- What they'll do there (play outside, hear stories, make friends)
- Who will pick them up
- How long they'll stay
Be honest but positive. Instead of saying 'I'll be back soon' when that's relative to a child, try 'I'll pick you up after story time' or another concrete marker in their day.
Early Bedtime
Ensure your child gets plenty of rest before the big day:
- Start bedtime routine 15-30 minutes earlier than usual
- Keep the evening calm and low-key
- Avoid discussions that might increase anxiety
- End the day with extra cuddles and reassurance
3. First Day Strategies
The big day has arrived! Here's how to make the morning and drop-off go as smoothly as possible.
Morning Routine
Start the day with plenty of time to avoid rushing:
- Wake up early enough for a relaxed pace
- Serve a nutritious breakfast with protein to sustain energy
- Take a "first day of school" photo if desired (but keep it low-pressure)
- Use a positive, matter-of-fact tone that communicates your confidence
Arrival Procedures
When you arrive at Meadowlark Schools:
- Check in with the teacher and show your child where to place their belongings
- Briefly reintroduce your child to the teacher if needed
- Point out interesting activities or materials in the classroom
- Maintain a positive demeanor even if you're feeling emotional
Creating a Goodbye Ritual
A consistent goodbye ritual provides security and predictability:
- Keep it simple—perhaps a special handshake, hug, or phrase
- Avoid prolonging goodbyes, which can increase anxiety
- Assure your child you'll return (being specific about when)
- Leave promptly after saying goodbye, even if your child becomes upset
Children often settle quickly after parents leave. Lingering or returning after saying goodbye can actually make the separation more difficult and prolong distress.
Managing Separation Anxiety
Some anxiety during separation is normal and developmentally appropriate:
- Acknowledge your child's feelings: "I see you're feeling sad that I'm leaving."
- Reassure them: "Your teachers will take good care of you, and I'll be back after outdoor time."
- Remain calm and confident, even if your child is crying
- Trust the teachers to comfort your child after you leave
At Meadowlark Schools, our teachers are experienced in helping children through the separation process. We'll contact you if your child remains upset for an extended period, but in most cases, children become engaged in activities shortly after parents depart.
4. Supporting Continued Adjustment
The adjustment to preschool typically takes more than just the first day. Here's how to support your child through the first weeks:
Maintain Consistent Pick-up Times
Being reliable builds trust:
- Arrive when promised
- If you'll be late, have the school inform your child
- Create a special greeting ritual for reuniting
When children can trust that you'll return as promised, they can more fully engage in their school experience. Consistency in pick-up times is one of the most important factors in building security.
Communicate with Teachers
Regular communication helps you stay connected to your child's experience:
- Check in briefly during drop-off or pick-up
- Read classroom newsletters or updates
- Share important information from home that might affect your child's day
- Ask specific questions about your child's adjustment
At Meadowlark Schools, we use a variety of communication tools to keep families informed, including daily highlights, weekly newsletters, and regular photos of children engaged in activities.
After-School Connection Routines
Create special time to reconnect after school:
- Establish a consistent after-school routine
- Allow for decompression time—some children need quiet time after a stimulating day
- Ask open-ended questions about their day, but don't press if they're not ready to share
- Listen for both verbal and non-verbal cues about their experience
Watch for Adjustment Signs
Children show their adjustment in different ways:
- Some children may be more tired than usual during the first weeks
- Appetite changes are common during transitions
- Temporary regression in certain behaviors (toileting, sleep, etc.) can occur
- Increased clinginess at home may appear as children process the separation
All of these responses are normal parts of adjustment and typically resolve as children become more comfortable with their new routine.
5. When Separation Anxiety Persists
While most children adjust to preschool within a few weeks, some may need additional support:
Normal vs. Concerning Behaviors
Normal adjustment behaviors include:
- Temporary tearfulness at drop-off that resolves soon after parents leave
- Some regression in independence skills
- Occasional reluctance to attend school
- Increased tiredness or emotional sensitivity
Behaviors that might warrant additional attention include:
- Persistent distress throughout the day
- Refusal to eat or participate in activities
- Physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches
- Significant changes in sleep or behavior at home
Working with Teachers on Strategies
If your child is having a particularly difficult time:
- Schedule a conversation with your child's teacher away from drop-off/pick-up times
- Develop consistent strategies to use at home and school
- Consider a shorter schedule temporarily if possible
- Create a more detailed transition plan with smaller steps
A partnership between home and school is essential when children need extra support. When we align our approaches, children receive consistent messages that help them build security.
Building Trust and Security
Additional trust-building strategies include:
- Leaving a family photo or small comfort object from home
- Creating a special book about your family that stays at school
- Establishing a consistent ritual for saying goodbye
- Arranging playdates with classmates outside of school
6. The Meadowlark Approach to New Student Transitions
At Meadowlark Schools, we've developed specific approaches to welcome new children:
- Each child is assigned a primary teacher who forms a special connection
- We learn about your child's interests and incorporate them into early activities
- New children are paired with more experienced peers who show them the ropes
- We balance group activities with individual attention during the transition period
- Our nature-based approach provides sensory experiences that help children regulate emotions during transitions
Our outdoor learning environments often ease transitions. The openness, fresh air, and natural materials have a calming effect on many children who are feeling overwhelmed by new social situations.
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Preschool Transitions
How long does it typically take for children to adjust to preschool?
Most children begin to feel comfortable within 2-4 weeks, though this varies widely. Some adapt within days, while others may take a month or more to fully settle in. Consistent attendance helps speed the adjustment process.
Should I sneak out when my child is distracted to avoid tears at drop-off?
We strongly recommend against "sneaking out," as this can undermine trust. Even if it prevents tears in the moment, children may become anxious about when you might disappear next. A brief, consistent goodbye ritual builds security over time.
My child was excited about school but now resists going. What happened?
This is very common! The initial excitement carries many children through the first few days. When they realize this is a permanent arrangement, they may test boundaries by resisting. Stay positive and matter-of-fact about attendance while acknowledging their feelings.
Should I bring my child for a full day right away or start with shorter hours?
If possible, a gradual approach often works well—starting with shorter days and building up to your regular schedule. However, this isn't always practical for working parents. Discuss options with your center director to find what works for your situation.
How can I find out how my child is really doing after I leave?
At Meadowlark Schools, we're committed to honest, transparent communication with parents. We'll share authentic information about your child's adjustment, including photos of them engaged in activities. Many parents find it reassuring to call for an update after the first drop-off.
8. Building the Home-School Partnership
Remember that starting preschool isn't just a transition for your child—it's a transition for your entire family. As parents, you're beginning a new partnership with teachers and becoming part of a school community that will support your child's growth.
At Meadowlark Schools, we value this partnership deeply. As we prepare to open our Stockton campus and Farm School in fall 2025, we're committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment where children and families feel connected, respected, and supported from day one.
The mixed emotions you and your child may feel during this transition are natural and healthy. They reflect the significance of this milestone and the deep bonds you share. By approaching this transition with patience, consistency, and positive expectations, you'll help your child develop resilience and confidence that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
To learn more about our approach to supporting new students at our upcoming Stockton campus or our established Hollister location, please contact us today.