Managing the First Week of School: A Guide for Parents
The first week of school is an exciting time filled with new classrooms, new teachers, new friends, and lots of new routines! At The Discovery Preschools, we know that starting a new school year can bring a mix of emotions—not only for children, but for parents, too.
Whether your child walks confidently into the classroom or needs a few extra hugs at drop-off, we want you to know that all feelings are welcome, and transitions take time. Here are a few helpful tips for making the first week of school a positive experience for your family.
💙 Expect Big Feelings
Starting school can be a big adjustment! Your child may feel excited one moment and nervous or unsure the next. Some children may experience separation anxiety, have difficulty saying goodbye, or become more emotional at home during the first few days.
This is completely normal.
Children are learning to adjust to a new environment, new people, and new routines. Give them space to express their feelings and remind them that it is okay to miss Mom, Dad, or another loved one while they are at school.
Simple phrases such as, “I know you miss me. Your teachers will take care of you, and I will always come back,” can help children feel safe and reassured.
👋 Keep Goodbyes Short and Positive
It can be difficult to leave when your child is upset, but long goodbyes can sometimes make the transition even harder.
Create a simple and predictable goodbye routine. This could include a hug, a kiss, a high five, or a special phrase that you say every morning. Once you say goodbye, confidently let your child know that you will be back later.
Children often take cues from the adults around them. When parents appear calm and confident, children begin to understand that school is a safe and positive place.
And remember—sometimes the tears stop shortly after you leave!
🏡 Expect Some Changes at Home
The first week of school can be tiring! Your child is taking in new information, learning routines, building relationships, and navigating a new environment.
You may notice that your child is more tired, emotional, clingy, or sensitive after school. Some children may also have changes in their sleep or appetite as they adjust.
Try to keep afternoons and evenings calm when possible. Extra cuddles, quiet play, reading together, and maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can help your child recharge.
🗓️ Establish a Consistent Routine
Children thrive on predictability. A consistent morning and evening routine can help make the transition to school easier.
Try preparing as much as possible the night before. Lay out clothes, pack any needed items, and talk positively about what the next school day will look like.
You can also talk with your child about the routine:
“First we will eat breakfast, then we will get dressed, then we will go to school and see your teachers and friends!”
Knowing what to expect can help children feel more secure and confident.
💬 Talk Positively About School
Ask your child simple questions about their day, but don’t worry if they don’t have much to say yet!
Instead of asking, “What did you do today?” try questions like:
- “What was something fun you played with today?”
- “Did you play outside?”
- “What made you smile today?”
- “Did you read any books?”
- “Who did you play near today?”
Remember that young children may still be developing the language skills needed to explain their entire day. Sometimes they may share more information while playing, eating dinner, or getting ready for bed.
🤝 Trust the Process and Partner With Your Child’s Teachers
Building trust and relationships takes time. During the first week, your child’s teachers are getting to know their personality, interests, routines, and individual needs.
At The Discovery Preschools, we believe that communication and partnership between families and teachers are an important part of helping children feel successful.
Please share anything that may help us support your child during this transition. Whether your child has a favorite comfort item, a special way they like to be soothed, or something exciting happening at home, we love getting to know the children and families in our care.
🌟 Celebrate the Small Wins
The first week is full of important milestones!
Maybe your child walked into the classroom independently. Maybe they tried a new activity, sat for part of circle time, played alongside another child, or successfully said goodbye with fewer tears.
Every small step matters.
Adjusting to school is a process, and each child will move through that process at their own pace. Celebrate their bravery and remind them how proud you are of them for trying something new.
💙 You’ve Got This!
The first week of school can be emotional, exciting, exhausting, and joyful—all at the same time. Give yourself and your child grace as you adjust to this new routine together.
At The Discovery Preschools, we are honored to be part of your child’s learning journey. Our goal is to create a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, loved, and excited to explore.
Together, we will help your child build confidence, friendships, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Here’s to a wonderful school year filled with discovery, growth, laughter, and learning! 💙