The first days in daycare are a significant change and transition for young children, their families, and their teachers. We can imagine it like a colorful box with so many unknown experiences that could possibly cause anxiety and excitement to our little friends and their significant others. Being away from their comfort zone, the children learn to interact with their peers in a structured social environment. But how can we make this transition smooth and positive?
Connect the Dots of the Emotions.
Children can experience various emotions without being able, at least at younger ages to regulate and verbalize them. The most common emotions are excitement, curiosity, anxiety, and sometimes fear. Understanding these emotions is the first step and trying to verbalize them would be the first step towards helping the children to adjust.
Tips for parents:
1. Prepare Your child before school starts: talk to the children about the school using positive language. if possible you can visit the school together before the first day.
2. Make a routine: We all know that routine makes our children thrive. A consistent morning routine will provide a sense of security. Try to follow the same routine as the one in the classroom if possible and practice the same routine that you are planning to follow when school starts (waking up at the same time, having breakfast, going out of the house, etc.). Lastly, ensure that the child is well-rested so they can handle new experiences better.
3. Communicate with the teachers: share useful information about your child’s preferences, possible fears, and any special needs. Teachers need to be aware of any situation or preference that could affect children’s mood and help the child effectively.
4. Trust the procedures, the school, and your child: the calmer you are the more you’re helping your child. You are positive- they are positive. Keep drop-off short and trust the professionals. Keep the goodbye brief, reassure them that you came back, and leave with confidence.
Tips for teachers:
1. make the school and classroom feel like home: Use positive language and a calm soft voice.
2. Establish a predictable routine: Routine is vital for a child’s development and mental stability. Knowing what’s next can reduce anxiety. Use pictures to illustrate the daily schedule and use storytime and songs so they feel more secure.
3. Communicate with parents. Provide daily updates to the parents about the child’s day highlighting the positives and any concerns. Be open to dialogues and try to give them guidelines, encouraging them to share their insights and ask questions.
4. Be patient and Compassionate: Being patient is the greatest gift for all teachers! Recognize that each child will adjust at their own pace. Be attentive to any signs of distress and offer immediate comfort.
5. Learn the system. Get as much information as you can from the parents about the child. Nickname, environmental cues that calm them down, and significant others can help them to feel safe. Invite the parents for an interview before the first day of school and ask them about their child.
(contact us to send you the “First Interview guideline” so you add it to your services)
Overall, the first month in the daycare is a time for adjustment and growth for the children, parents, and teachers. The key is to prepare the child for this journey and be aware of the factors that cause stress. Establishing routines and creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming learning environment would benefit both teachers and parents, but mainly the children.
The main goal is to make the school experience positive by prioritizing the child’s mental health and laying the foundation for further love of learning and exploration.
List of books about going to school and saying goodbyes (NAEYC suggestions):
- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
- David Goes to School by David Shannon
- Will I Have a Friend? by Miriam Cohen
- First Day of School by Anne Rockwell
- When I Miss You by Cornelia Maude Spelman
- Take a Kiss to School by Angela McAllister
- It’s Time for Preschool by Esme Raj Codell
- A Pocketful of Kisses by Audrey Penn
Do you need more tips for your child or your classroom? Do not hesitate to contact us for a personalized map of your child or your childcare center.
Get the “First interview guideline for schools” by sending us an email.