A Parent’s Guide to the First Day of Daycare or Preschool

The transition to daycare or preschool is an exciting milestone, but it is completely natural for both parents and children to feel a flutter of anxiety. Whether you are dropping off your infant for the first time or introducing your toddler to a bustling new classroom, preparation is the key to a smooth and joyful transition.

Here at Little Scholars Montessori Academy, we have guided countless families through this big step. Over the years, we have found that a little bit of groundwork at home can make a world of difference. Here are our top tips for preparing your infant or toddler for their first day.

1. Ease Into the New Routine Gradually

Children thrive on predictability. A week or two before the first day, gradually start adjusting your child’s schedule at home to mirror the school’s routine. Shift their morning wake-up time, nap schedule, and meal times by 15-minute increments until they align with the classroom schedule. A well-rested child who knows what to expect is much more likely to feel secure in a new environment.

2. Foster a Sense of Independence

For toddlers, preschool is all about discovering their capabilities. You can help them build confidence beforehand by encouraging age-appropriate independence at home. Let them practice taking off their own shoes, washing their hands, or drinking from an open cup. In a Montessori environment, children take great pride in doing things for themselves, and having a head start on these self-care skills will help them feel incredibly proud and capable on day one.

3. Talk About It (and Read About It!)

Keep the conversation about school positive and engaging. Talk to your toddler about the fun activities they will do, the friends they will make, and the caring teachers they will meet. Reading books about starting school is also a fantastic way to process big feelings. Titles like Llama Llama Misses Mama or The Kissing Hand can help normalize the experience of saying goodbye and coming back together.

4. Visit the Classroom Together

Familiarity breeds comfort. If possible, bring your child to visit the classroom, meet their teachers, and explore the space before their official start date. Letting them see the physical environment—the reading nooks, the outdoor play area, the cubbies—takes away the fear of the unknown.

5. Master the "Quick and Confident" Goodbye

Drop-off is often the hardest part, especially for parents! Children are incredibly perceptive and will pick up on your emotional cues. When it’s time to say goodbye, keep it brief, loving, and positive. Establish a quick parting ritual—a high-five, a special handshake, or a big hug—say, "I love you, and I will be back to pick you up after snack time," and then confidently walk out. Lingering or sneaking out when they aren't looking can actually increase their anxiety. Trust the teachers; they are experts at redirection and comforting upset little ones.

6. Pack a Piece of Home

For infants and young toddlers, having something familiar can be a huge source of comfort. Pack a family photo, a beloved transition item like a favorite blanket or soft toy (if the school’s policy allows), and plenty of extra clothes. For infants, ensure you've discussed their specific feeding and sleeping cues with their caregivers so their routine feels as close to home as possible.

Give It Time

Remember, every child adjusts at their own pace. Some bound into the classroom on day one without looking back, while others may take a few weeks to fully settle into the new rhythm. Both reactions are perfectly normal. Give your child—and yourself—grace during this transition.

Before you know it, your little one will be making new friends, learning new skills, and looking forward to the days ahead. If you ever have questions or concerns leading up to the big day, our team is always here to help ensure your family feels completely supported!