For many families and caregivers, the beginning of a new school year comes with challenging transitions and new routines. And though my own child is still young, changing our routine from going to the one-year-old classroom at his school to the two-year-old classroom was hard on our family. This can be especially true for children entering into kindergarten and voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) programs.

Here are some tips that can help young children and their caregivers prepare for a smooth start:

• Visit your VPK provider before the first day of school. New places can be scary for little ones but visiting the facility and introducing your child to their teacher can squash some of those first day jitters.
• It’s also common for parents to have their own set of nerves prior to the first day. Nerves can make one forgetful, so make a list of questions to ask your child care provider to ensure you’re getting all the information you need during your visit.

• Establish a routine. Whether it’s eating a healthy breakfast in the morning or wrapping your child up in a big bear hug at drop-off, a simple routine can do wonders for easing stress and separation anxiety. 
• Although, if you’re like me, there may be days where you’re late for work and, oops, you’re out of ingredients for a healthy breakfast. It’s OK! The key word here is “simple.” Even if all you do every morning is a big kiss and an affirmative “have a great day,” if you’re consistent, that’s all that matters.

• Help your child mentally prepare for school and VPK. Talk to them about the new routine, let them know what time school starts, who will drop them off, pick them up, and what a typical school day will consist of. This can also help get them excited for school!
• This can be especially helpful for little ones with anxiety. Knowing in advance how long something will last and what to expect can do wonders for their nerves. Even as an adult, those tactics work for me.

• Equip your child with self-help skills, such as putting on their shoes, dressing themselves, packing their backpack, and mastering toilet etiquette. These skills will help with confidence and get them prepared for the daily school routine.
• Keep in mind, if mornings tend to be rushed or hectic in your household, many skills can be done the night before, such as having your child lay out clothes or prepare their lunch for the next day.

• In the weeks leading up to a new VPK school year, transition to an earlier bedtime. Children will do better in the classroom if they are well-rested.
• An earlier bedtime can sometimes be easier said than done, especially when returning to school after holidays, vacations, and long weekends. Stick with a calming nighttime routine and get back into the earlier groove once everyone is settled into the week.

• Read books to your child about attending school. This can help them learn what to expect in a prekindergarten program and get them excited about the fun activities that await.
• Some great options are “A New School Year” by Sally Derby and “The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson. Or you can make up your own story!

• Ask your child how they feel about VPK! Having open conversations on their feelings about school is a great opportunity to address fears and concerns.
• Even if they respond with a shrug or an “I don’t know,” don’t give up! Keep gently asking when they feel up to talking and remind them that you’re always there for them.

Do you have a child that has been through, or is currently attending, VPK? What tips do you have to share with other parents and caregivers?