Whether your child is starting preschool for the very first time or returning after summer break, the start of a new school year is an exciting milestone. It also comes with plenty of emotions—for children and parents alike.
The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Children thrive on consistency and predictable routines, and helping them know what to expect can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. Early childhood experts consistently emphasize that preparing both emotionally and practically helps children feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Use this simple checklist to help your family feel organized and excited before the first day of preschool.
Establish a School Sleep Schedule
One of the biggest adjustments after summer is returning to a consistent bedtime.
If bedtime has gradually shifted later over the summer months, begin moving it back 10–15 minutes each night about one to two weeks before school begins. This gradual adjustment helps children wake up more easily and arrive at school rested.
Young children learn best when they're well-rested. Adequate sleep supports:
- Emotional regulation
- Memory
- Attention span
- Problem-solving skills
- Physical health
Creating a calming bedtime routine—such as bath time, reading together, and quiet conversation—can also help children transition more easily into sleep.
Practice the Morning Routine
The first day of school shouldn't be the first time your child experiences a school morning.
Practice your routine several days in advance by:
- Waking up at school time
- Getting dressed
- Eating breakfast
- Packing the backpack
- Leaving the house at the same time you'll leave for school
Even pretending to drive or walk to school can make the real first day feel familiar rather than overwhelming.
Children often gain confidence when they know exactly what comes next.
Talk About Preschool in a Positive Way
Children naturally take emotional cues from the adults around them.
Instead of asking:
"Are you nervous?"
Try saying:
- "You're going to meet new friends."
- "Your teachers are excited to see you."
- "You'll get to play, learn, and explore."
- "Mom or Dad will always come back after school."
Keeping conversations upbeat while acknowledging feelings helps children build confidence.
It's perfectly normal for children to have mixed emotions about starting school. Excitement and nervousness often happen together.
Visit the School Before the First Day
If your preschool offers classroom visits, orientation, or an opportunity to meet teachers, take advantage of it.
Seeing the classroom ahead of time helps children become familiar with:
- Their teacher
- The classroom
- The playground
- Bathrooms
- Cubbies
- Daily routines
Research shows that familiar environments reduce anxiety and help children adjust more quickly to new experiences.
Label Everything
It's amazing how many identical water bottles, sweaters, and backpacks can end up in one preschool classroom.
Be sure to label:
- Backpack
- Water bottle
- Extra clothes
- Jacket
- Sweater
- Nap items (if applicable)
- Comfort item (if allowed)
Permanent labels or waterproof name stickers can save everyone time throughout the school year.
Pack Extra Clothes
Even children who are fully potty trained benefit from having an extra outfit at school.
Accidents happen for many reasons:
- Water play
- Art projects
- Muddy playground adventures
- Toilet accidents
- Spilled lunches
Pack:
- Shirt
- Pants or shorts
- Underwear
- Socks
For younger children, include weather-appropriate clothing as the seasons change.
Review School Policies
Before school begins, familiarize yourself with important information such as:
- Arrival and dismissal procedures
- Attendance policies
- Illness guidelines
- Medication procedures
- Emergency contacts
- Communication methods
Knowing these expectations ahead of time helps mornings feel less stressful.
Update Emergency Information
Double-check that your school has current:
- Parent phone numbers
- Emergency contacts
- Authorized pickup adults
- Medical information
- Allergy information
Keeping this information current helps schools respond quickly if needed.
Prepare Your Child for Independence
Preschool is full of opportunities for children to build confidence through everyday tasks.
Practice skills such as:
- Washing hands
- Putting on jackets
- Opening lunch containers (if applicable)
- Hanging up backpacks
- Cleaning up toys
- Using the restroom independently when developmentally appropriate
These small successes build self-esteem throughout the school day.
Read Books About Starting School
Books help children understand new experiences before they happen.
Some family favorites include:
- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
- Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
- Pete the Kitty's First Day of Preschool by Kimberly & James Dean
- Maisy Goes to Preschool by Lucy Cousins
Reading together creates opportunities for children to ask questions and talk about their feelings.
Expect Some Big Emotions
Even children who are excited about preschool may experience tears during drop-off.
This is completely normal.
Young children often adjust much faster than parents expect once they're engaged in classroom activities.
The best approach is:
- Keep goodbyes short.
- Stay calm and confident.
- Avoid sneaking away.
- Reassure your child that you'll return.
Teachers are experienced in helping children transition into the school day and understand that the first few weeks often involve an adjustment period.
Build Excitement
Starting preschool is a celebration.
Try:
- Letting your child choose their backpack.
- Picking out first-day clothes together.
- Taking a first-day photo.
- Planning a special family dinner after school.
- Asking about the "best part" of their day instead of "What did you do?"
Small traditions help children associate school with positive memories.
Your Preschool Back-to-School Checklist
Before the first day, make sure you've checked off:
- Consistent bedtime established
- Morning routine practiced
- Backpack labeled
- Extra clothes packed
- Emergency contacts updated
- School policies reviewed
- Classroom visited (if possible)
- Positive conversations about school
- Favorite books about preschool read together
- First-day excitement ready to go!
How The Brunswick School Helps Families Transition Smoothly
At The Brunswick School, we understand that starting a new school year is a big milestone for the whole family.
From our welcoming classrooms and caring teachers to our thoughtful orientation process and consistent daily routines, we work to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and excited to learn from day one.
Our developmentally appropriate programs—from infancy through elementary—are designed to help children build confidence, independence, curiosity, and meaningful relationships in a nurturing environment where every child is known.
When schools and families work together, children are set up for a successful start—not just for the first day, but for the entire school year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should we start preparing for preschool?
Ideally, begin adjusting sleep schedules and practicing routines one to two weeks before school starts. This gives children time to adapt gradually.
What if my child cries at drop-off?
Short periods of crying are common during the first few weeks. Most children settle quickly once they become engaged with classroom activities and caring teachers.
Should I stay longer if my child is upset?
In most cases, a calm, confident goodbye is the most helpful approach. Prolonged goodbyes can make transitions more difficult.
What if my child has never been away from me?
That's okay. Many preschoolers are experiencing their first extended separation from parents. Patient, supportive teachers and consistent routines help children develop confidence over time.
Ready to help your child start the school year with confidence?
The Brunswick School serves children from infancy through elementary with thoughtfully designed classrooms, experienced educators, and a nurturing environment where children learn through exploration, inquiry, and meaningful relationships. We invite you to schedule a tour and discover how we help every child begin their educational journey with confidence, curiosity, and joy.
