Ensuring a Smooth First Day at Preschool

Kelsey Vowel
May 21
3 min read

Starting preschool is a big milestone, not just for our little ones but for us as parents too. Whether it’s your first time sending a child off to school or you're a seasoned pro, the first day can bring out all the emotions. The Early Learning curriculum for children 0-5 of age; FLIGHT Early Learning and Care Framework reminds us to see children as mighty learners and citizens, capable of navigating new experiences when we support them with care, intention, and connection.

Here are a few thoughtful ways to help ease the transition and ensure a smooth first day of preschool for your child.

1. Prepare a Familiar Item to Bring Along

Bringing a comfort item from home helps children feel safe and grounded in a new environment. It could be a small stuffy, family photo, or even a special note tucked into their backpack. This gentle connection to home supports the FLIGHT concept of nurturing responsive relationships by offering emotional security as children step into new spaces.

Tip: Talk to your child about their item. “Your bunny can stay in your backpack and remind you that I’m thinking about you.”

2. Talk About the Daily Schedule Ahead of Time

Preschool is full of exciting routines such as free play, snack time, outdoor adventures, and story time. Reviewing what the day might look like helps children feel more confident and reduces the unknowns. Using visuals or a pretend play setup at home can bring the idea to life. This supports holistic play-based goals by empowering children to feel agency over their day and easing their transition through play and conversation.

Try saying: “In the morning, you’ll play with your friends. Then you’ll have a snack, go outside, and I’ll be back after story time.”

3. Practice a Goodbye Routine

Goodbyes are tough but having a consistent routine can make it easier. Create a short and sweet ritual such as a hug, a high five, a kiss on the hand, or a special phrase. The key is consistency. Over time, this routine builds trust and emotional resilience, which is a big part of early learning development.

Tip: Avoid lingering too long or sneaking out, which can lead to confusion or anxiety. A confident goodbye helps your child feel safe.

4. Read Books About Starting Preschool

Books are powerful tools for preparing children for new experiences. They open conversations, normalize feelings, and help children see themselves in stories.

Our top picks:

“The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn – A gentle story about separation and connection https://a.co/d/dgaSfRr
“Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney – A rhyming book about first-day jitters https://a.co/d/jiwI79b
“Maisy Goes to Preschool” by Lucy Cousins – A simple, cheerful book perfect for younger children https://a.co/d/46ZOA60
“Owl Babies” by Martin Waddell – A comforting story about waiting for a parent’s return https://a.co/d/6e2fNwv
Preschool, Here I come! By D.J Steinberg https://a.co/d/fQ1iX6Q

5. Remember It’s a Journey Not a Race

Even with all the preparation, the first few drop-offs might come with big feelings and that’s okay. Children are adjusting just like we are. The FLIGHT framework reminds us to honour children’s emotional experiences and support them through reflective, caring relationships.

Parenting Tip: Give yourself grace. Transitions are hard for grown-ups too. Connect with your educator, ask how your child is doing, and celebrate the small wins such as putting their own backpack away or waving goodbye.

Final Thoughts

The first day of preschool is just the beginning of a beautiful learning journey. When we take time to prepare with empathy and intention, we’re not just sending children into a new space. We are giving them the tools to thrive in it.

Cheering you and your little ones on every step of the way.

KelseyRad Mama of Two, Early Childhood Advocate, and Nature-Based Educator