How to Prepare Your Child and Yourself for the First Day of Preschool

sakalyawisdom
Oct 16
3 min read

The first day of preschool is a milestone — exciting, emotional, and sometimes a little overwhelming. It marks the beginning of your child’s learning journey outside the home and your first step toward letting them explore the world independently. Preparing both your child and yourself can make this transition smooth and joyful.

1. Start Talking About School Early

Begin conversations about preschool a few weeks before it starts. Talk positively about what school will be like — new friends, fun activities, stories, playtime, and teachers. Tip: Read storybooks about starting school, like “The Kissing Hand” or “Maisy Goes to Preschool.” Stories make the idea of school familiar and exciting.

2. Visit the School Together

If possible, take your child to visit the preschool before the first day. Walk around the classrooms, show them where they’ll play and eat, and introduce them to their teacher if available. This helps your child visualize what to expect and reduces anxiety about the unknown.

3. Build a Routine Ahead of Time

Preschool runs on structure — fixed times for waking up, meals, play, and nap. A week before school starts, gently align your child’s schedule with the school routine. Regular sleep and morning routines make the first few days much smoother and help your child adjust faster.

4. Encourage Independence

Simple tasks like washing hands, eating by themselves, putting on shoes, or packing their bag help children feel capable and confident. Practice these at home so your child feels ready to manage small responsibilities at school.

5 Don’t worry if your child doesn’t finish their snack box on the first day. It takes time for children to feel safe and comfortable in a new environment. Once they begin to trust their teachers and surroundings, their appetite and routine will naturally settle — usually within the first few days.

6 Positive Reassurance

Children often experience separation anxiety — sometimes not just because they’re leaving you, but because they worry about how you’ll feel when they’re away. Gentle, confident affirmations can make a huge difference:

“You love your school!”
“Your friends and teachers are excited to see you.”
“Your teacher really likes you.”
“You’re going to a happy place.”
“Mom is happy and waiting for you at home.”

Speaking calmly and positively reduces anxiety and helps children trust their new environment.

7. Keep Goodbyes Short and Positive

On the first day, say goodbye confidently, even if your heart is melting inside. Smile, offer a quick hug or kiss, and say something reassuring like, “Have fun — I’ll see you soon after story time!” Long, emotional goodbyes can make children more anxious.

8. Manage Your Own Emotions

It’s completely normal for parents to feel emotional — proud, anxious, or even teary. Children easily pick up on parents’ feelings, so staying calm and positive helps them feel secure. Take deep breaths, trust the teachers, and remind yourself this is a happy milestone.

9. Establish a Pick-up Routine

Be on time for pick-up, especially in the early days. Seeing a familiar face right when they expect it builds trust and helps them settle into the routine.

10. Talk About the Day

Avoid pressing too hard; let them share at their own pace. Celebrate even small milestones — “You stayed all by yourself today!”

Final Thought

The first day of preschool is the beginning of a wonderful journey — for both of you. There may be a few tears (from parent or child!), but soon those tears turn into smiles and excitement. With love, patience, and preparation, you’ll both step into this new chapter with confidence and joy.

Sakalya Wisdom Early Years is the best preschool near to the families residing in Seegehalli Kadugodi, Kannamangala, Chikkabanahalli area in Whitefield Bangalore, offering a nurturing environment where learning unfolds through exploration and experience through Project Based Learning . Recognized as one of the best early learning schools, Sakalya Wisdom is located in a nature-friendly space away from noise pollution. With spacious Montessori classrooms , this kindergarten space blends modern pedagogy with natural learning experiences. Led by an Army veteran, IIM alumnus, and Harvard-certified early education leader, Sakalya Wisdom stands apart as a thoughtful, value-driven preschool where admissions are now open for parents seeking a joyful, holistic start to their child’s learning journey in Bangalore. This best learning experience for your child cannot be at the doorstep as we believe that holistic learning happens in the calm environment in a residential layout 2 minutes from Whitefield Hoskote Main Road Admissions are now open, and we invite you to experience the difference of an education that truly nurtures your child's potential.