Helping Your Child Adjust to the First Day of School

Early Learning & Development
Written By Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

Helping Your Child Adjust to the First Week of School

The first week of school is an exciting milestone for both children and parents, but it can also bring feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. As a parent, there are simple steps you can take before and during that first week to help your child feel confident, secure, and ready to learn (routines and predictability support smoother transitions). NAEYC

1) Start the Conversation Early

Start discussing school weeks before the first day. Share what your child can expect: meeting their teacher, making new friends, exploring the classroom, and learning new things. Use positive language and answer questions honestly. Children feel more secure when they understand what’s coming (previewing new experiences reduces worry). NAEYC

2) Visit the School Ahead of Time

If possible, arrange a visit to the school before classes begin. Walk the hallways, explore the playground, and peek inside the classrooms. This familiarity helps reduce first-day jitters (family school visits/orientation are recommended transition practices). HeadStart.govAdministration for Children and Families

3) Offer a Comfort Item from Home

Allowing a small “transition object” (a family photo, tiny plush, or nap blanket that fits the cubby) can provide security throughout the day (comfort items are an evidence-based transition support; pair with a simple goodbye ritual). CSEFEL+1

4) Keep Goodbyes Short and Positive

Lingering can increase anxiety. Try a brief, confident routine, a hug or high-five, a calm “You’re going to have a great day,” and then go. Short, predictable separations help children adjust (AAP/HealthyChildren; Child Mind Institute). HealthyChildren.orgChild Mind Institute

5) Be Consistent and On Time

During the first week (and beyond), consistency builds trust. Arrive on time, especially at pickup, so your child learns that school days are predictable and that you’ll return when you say you will (predictable routines support security and reduce transition stress). NAEYC

6) Choose Comfortable Clothing Over Fancy Outfits

School is for movement, play, and exploration. Choose clothes and shoes that allow running, climbing, and messy art, save fancy outfits for weekends. Comfort supports active engagement and self-help independence (developmentally appropriate practice emphasizes play and active learning). NAEYC

7) Build a Positive Relationship with the Teacher

Children notice how you interact with their teacher. Greet the teacher warmly, ask questions, and share helpful details about your child. Positive family–teacher partnerships help children feel safe and connected to the classroom (NAEYC on family partnerships). NAEYC+1

Final Thought

The first week of school is the start of a new chapter. By preparing ahead, offering comfort and familiarity, keeping goodbyes short and confident, and following through on your promises, you set the tone for a successful and joyful school year. Your energy becomes their energy-lead with positivity, and watch them thrive.

Sources

  • NAEYC – Transitioning to Kindergarten (family tips; start routines early). NAEYC

  • Head Start / ACF – “Your Child Is Going to Kindergarten: Making the Move Together” (visit the school, meet the teacher). HeadStart.gov

  • OPRE/ACF – Systems Transitions from Head Start to Kindergarten (overview of coordinated transition practices). Administration for Children and Families

  • CSEFEL (Vanderbilt) – Responsive Routines/Transitions (comfort items and goodbye rituals). CSEFEL

  • CSEFEL – Individualized Intervention handouts (encourage transitional objects of comfort). CSEFEL

  • AAP – HealthyChildren: Making Drop-Off Easier / Ease Separation Anxiety (brief, routine goodbyes). HealthyChildren.org+1

  • Child Mind Institute – Separation strategies (keep goodbyes quick; don’t prolong separations). Child Mind Institute

  • NAEYC – Building a Partnership with Your Child’s Teacher; Five Rs for Family Engagement. NAEYC+1

  • NAEYC – Reducing Challenging Behaviors During Transitions (value of consistent, predictable routines). NAEYC

Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

Dr. Cynthia Skyers-Gordon, Ed.D. is the founder of SILWELL-C (Staff-Inspired Leadership for Wellness and Calm), a wellness initiative created to empower educators, leaders, and teams to thrive from within. With more than 33 years of experience in early childhood education, from assistant teacher to director to Education Coordinator, Dr. Skyers-Gordon understands the challenges and opportunities staff face each day.

SILWELL-C was born from her belief that true wellness in schools starts with the staff themselves. By providing calm leadership strategies, practical tools, affirmations, and inspiration, SILWELL-C equips educators and leaders to create supportive, balanced environments where both staff and children can flourish.

Through workshops, consultations, and creative resources, Dr. Skyers-Gordon combines her in-depth expertise with a passion for cultivating resilience, connection, and calm in every space. Whether it’s through her upcoming Wellness Toolkit, the JamBel Storybook, or the Free Wellness Hub, she continues to design practical ways for educators and leaders to sustain their own wellness while inspiring others.

At its core, SILWELL-C is more than a program; it’s a movement: a reminder that when staff lead with wellness, schools grow with strength, calm, and confidence.

https://www.silwellc.com
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