Going to preschool for the first time can raise feelings of anxiety in any child. That’s why it’s important to understand where the fear is coming from so you can guide them through the initial adjustment period and help them have a positive experience. The professionals at Merry Manor School of Childhood in Lincoln, NE, are passionate about educational success and offer these three tips to help your little one get through those scary first days.

3 Ways to Soothe Preschool Anxiety

1. Have a Grand Introduction

A new place with new faces, routines, and activities can be scary for a young child. That’s why it’s important treat the first day of preschool like an exciting adventure. Take pictures in front of the school, introduce your child to all of the staff they may interact with, and try to point out things your little one enjoys, like posters of animals or the variety of colorful toys. This will help your child begin to interact with their new environment and become familiar with their surroundings.

2. Be Honest 

It’s not a good idea to tell your child you’ll be sitting outside the classroom all day if you won’t or suddenly sneak out while they are distracted. This can create a negative atmosphere and also induce panic. It’s important to be up front and honest during the entire process. Tell them kids go to school every day for a certain number of hours to learn new and exciting things, just like parents go to work. And, after school, you can’t wait to hear all about it.

3. Establish a Routine

Good morning and goodbye routines will help your child understand what will happen each day, making the transition to preschool less scary. You can practice at home a few days before by waking up at the same time, preparing their lunch, providing them with a transitional object to put in their backpack, like a lucky charm or small toy, and then “saying goodbye” before they go off to “preschool” in another room in the house. This will help your child know what to expect.

Preparing yourself and your little one for their first day of preschool and beyond will help establish healthy habits and coping mechanisms for situations that may induce anxiety in your child later in life. The knowledgeable and caring staff at Merry Manor School of Childhood has 70 years of combined experience in child and infant care, so you can rest assured they will encourage and support your little one through their early stages of development. To learn more about their preschool activities and programs, visit them online or call (402) 466-2215.