Starting preschool is a big step for your child and the whole family. It can bring excitement, worry, and plenty of other feelings along the way. How can you prepare your little one and help the change feel more familiar? Here are a few ideas to try.

1. Be honest and positive

You may feel nervous about this change, too. Give yourself time, and don’t expect yourself to be perfectly calm. Describe preschool as an interesting place where your child will meet other children and try new things. Avoid promising that everything will be wonderful. “You’ll discover some new games to play” gives a more realistic picture than “You’ll love every minute.”

2. Read books about preschool

There are plenty of picture books that introduce preschool life. Reading about a character’s first day can help your child understand what to expect. You can also play preschool at home: teddy bears and dolls become the children, and you act out familiar parts of the day together.

3. Visit before the first day

If your preschool offers settling-in sessions or an open day, take the opportunity to go. Let your child see the classroom and playground and meet the teachers. If a visit isn’t possible, you could walk past the building together and say, “This is your preschool. This is where you’ll play.”

4. Make room for your child’s feelings

It’s okay for your child to feel afraid, sad, or angry. Rather than saying, “There’s nothing to be scared of,” try, “I can see you’re nervous. New things can feel a little scary. I’m here with you.” Feeling understood can be a real comfort.

5. Create a goodbye ritual

A short, affectionate goodbye can make parting a little easier. Long goodbyes at the door sometimes add to everyone’s stress. Find a small ritual of your own: a fist bump, a kiss on the nose, and “I’ll be back after snack time.” Choose a promise that matches your actual pickup plan and keep it, so your child knows they can trust what you say.

Every child settles in at their own pace. Give yourselves time and be kind to each other as you find your way.