It’s a lot. I know. Your baby is not really a baby anymore. Not even a toddler. They’re a WHOLE KID now — starting their first day of preschool. Whether it’s full day or part day, five days a week or two, this is a huge transition for both of you. Maybe you’re feeling excited? Maybe nervous, anxious, overwhelmed, sad. Likely, all of the above.
Here are a few of my most helpful tips as your little one starts preschool — from a fellow mom who was there just a few short years ago.
1. Practice!
No matter the type of preschool your child is attending, they will likely be working on new independence skills there. This is fun and exciting, and you can give them a head start! Let them get used to their backpack and supplies. If they are bringing snack/lunch, work on opening those bags, containers, and juice boxes.
2. Know you and your child will be OK
Whether your child walks away without turning back (like mine) or the teacher has to pull them away from you crying… both you and your kid will be OK. The teachers know how to distract, reframe, and regulate the wild emotions of preschoolers. And no matter your child’s reaction to starting preschool, don’t worry — they can handle it. I promise.
3. Provide a tangible reminder of your love
If you have an emo kid like I do, prep some sort of tangible item to let them know you will be there with them in their mind. Maybe it is “heart hands” like my friend Ali Feller from the Ali on the Run Podcast does with her daughter — sharpie hearts on both of their hands while she travels for work. Maybe it’s a note in the lunchbox. Or one of the many bracelet-type options they sell on Etsy and elsewhere. If your kid (or you) would like that visual representation, do it!
4. Commemorate the first day
Begin a new tradition with your partner or friends to go to coffee, breakfast, or lunch (maybe mimosas?!) to commemorate the first day of school. Make this an annual thing, and there will be something additional to look forward to at the start of each school year.
5. Get ready for the aftershock
Prepare for a tired, drained, emotional child to return from preschool. Even if they had the world’s best day, the new place, new friends, and new routines could take a lot out of anyone. Try to avoid new or additional activities after school. Stick to the basics with an emphasis on moments to chill and decompress.
Starting preschool is big! It’s exciting! Feel all the feels, and let your kid do the same. One of the coolest parts of parenting is watching your child learn new things, and preschool is like an explosion of knowledge and curiosity. Embrace all the ups — and weather the inevitable downs — of this wild ride.
The most important thing to remember is this: You are the mom your child needs. You are enough and you are doing great. (Then repeat this mantra for ever and ever!)
