Keep Mornings Calm
One of the best things parents can do during the first week is avoid rushing.
Give your child enough time to wake up, eat breakfast, get dressed, and prepare for school.
A rushed morning can increase stress before the day even begins.
Create a Consistent Goodbye Routine
Children often benefit from knowing exactly what will happen at drop-off.
Try creating a simple ritual:
Hug → Kiss → Special phrase → Wave → Goodbye
For example:
“I love you. You are safe. Your teacher will take care of you. I’ll see you after school.”
Then leave confidently.
Should You Stay if Your Child Cries?
It’s natural to want to stay when your child is crying.
However, once you’ve said goodbye, a long or repeated goodbye can sometimes make separation more difficult.
A calm, confident goodbye communicates:
“I know you are safe here.”
Your child’s teacher can then help them transition into the classroom.
Don't Sneak Away
It can be tempting to leave while your child is distracted, but children need to know that parents keep their promises.
When parents consistently say goodbye and return as promised, children begin to develop trust in the routine.
Expect Big Emotions After School
Some children seem perfectly fine at school and then have a major meltdown as soon as they get home.
This can happen because home is their safe place.
After holding themselves together throughout the school day, children may finally release their emotions when they’re reunited with their parents.
Instead of immediately asking:
“Did you have fun?”
Try:
“I’m so happy to see you. You had a big day.”
Offer a snack, water, affection, and some quiet time.
Don't Overschedule the First Week
Preschool can be tiring.
During the first week, your child may benefit from quieter afternoons rather than a packed schedule of activities.
Think:
School → Snack → Connection → Free Play → Dinner → Bed
Downtime gives your child’s brain and body an opportunity to recover.
Celebrate Small Successes
Your child doesn’t have to walk into school confidently on the first day.
Celebrate small steps:
“You put your backpack away by yourself!”
“You walked into the classroom even though you felt nervous.”
“You told your teacher what you needed.”
These moments build confidence.
Remember That Adjustment Takes Time
Some children adjust in a few days. Others need several weeks.
Instead of asking:
“Is my child completely comfortable yet?”
Ask:
“Are we seeing small signs of progress?”
Progress might look like shorter goodbyes, more participation, talking about school, or recovering more quickly from difficult moments.
The first week of preschool is a major milestone for both children and parents.
Your child may be excited one moment and nervous the next. They may confidently walk into the classroom one morning and cry at drop-off the next.
This is normal.
Starting preschool involves many new experiences, and children need time to learn that their new classroom is a safe and familiar place.
At Do Re Mi Academy in Renton, WA, we know that successful transitions begin with patience, predictable routines, and strong relationships between children, teachers, and families
A Nurturing Beginning Matters
If you’re looking for a nurturing preschool in Renton, WA, contact Do Re Mi Academy to learn more about our programs.
At Do Re Mi Academy, our preschool classrooms are designed to help children develop confidence, independence, creativity, and a love of learning through music, movement, and meaningful experiences.
We believe children learn best when they feel safe, known, and encouraged.
Your Child … Developing Beautifully
