This sponsored post is brought to you by KinderCare.
School begins in less than two weeks for my oldest two. We’ve long since mastered the Back to School transition of separation anxiety. In fact, I think I might have a tougher time than my kids! My heart aches for the children that have a harder time with it and the parents that have to help them work through it. I know it isn’t easy sometimes! I also have experience from the other side. I worked in a daycare center for several years before becoming a nanny and then finally becoming a mom myself. Below are some of my tips for making the transition as smooth as possible:
- PREPARE — If possible, visit the school or daycare in advance of the first day to show your child around. Talk about how much fun they’ll have! If visiting isn’t an option, you can still prepare your child just by talking about it. Keep the conversation upbeat and fun. Walk them through what a typical day will be like — you can usually get a general outline from the teacher. Knowing what to expect can ease some anxiety.
- BE CONFIDENT — Assure your child that you know they are going to have fun and make new friends. Let them know that the teacher will take good care of them while you are away.
- HAVE A GOODBYE PLAN — The drop-off can be just as hard on the parent as it is for the child until you’ve both adjusted to the routine. Having a drop-off plan in mind in advance will help you, your child, and their teacher. Rather than slipping away when they aren’t looking, be direct. “Let’s hang up your jacket, put away your lunch box and I’ll walk you over to join your friends. Then I’m going to work. I’ll be back to pick you up after lunch” It might be fun to make a quick special goodbye routine like a hug and a high five but make sure you leave when you say you will, even if there are tears. It might be hard but the teacher will be able to help them through it faster with this direct approach.
KinderCare Learning Centers has helped thousands of families work out the kinks with back to school routines. They understand that drop-offs and naps are two areas that sometimes require extra support. Having teachers and staff with the knowledge and experience to handle these types of transitions make it easier for the whole family, something to consider when choosing a school!
KinderCare and expert Linda Hassan Anderson, VP of Education for Knowledge Universe offers more tips in this short video:
Parenting with Purpose – Help Your Child be Ready and Happy to go to School
Do you have any tips for the back-to-school drop-off transition? What has worked for you and your child?