Separation between parents and children is hardest on the first day of school. Songs, ritual and a gradual parting help ease this stressful time. Let each child choose a Goodbye Book or Goodbye Game to play with their parent or guardian before separating. As a teacher, you should explain to the child that, "Mommy is going to read you this book and then she's going to go to work and you're going to come do finger painting with me Jacob and Isabelle." Always mention the fun activity happening after the parent leaves so the toddler has an alternative, enjoyable focus after the separation occurs.
Schedule a visit to the preschool with your toddler before the term actually begins. Choose a time when other students are present so your toddler's experience is as authentic as possible. Encourage your child to participate in activities with other children so she knows what to expect when she actually starts attending preschool. Comment enthusiastically and often how much fun the other children are having, and how she's going to have so much when she starts preschool. Take pictures of your child and the other children participating in the activities to visually remind her of the experience. Always call the school ahead of time to schedule a visit
Compile the pictures taken during visitation day into a blank book and ask your child to describe what's happening in each photo. Write her descriptions under each picture and read the story together as her school start date approaches. Ask her questions about the pictures to remind her of her attendance next year. For example, you can say "There you are playing at the water wheel table with the duck. What other animals do you think you'll play with next year?" If you were unable to visit the school, you can purchase a book about entering preschool at a local bookstore.
Preparing your child's backpack together lets her exercise some control over the items she brings and mentally prepare for the experience. For example, if the school requires bringing a sleeping pad, take her to the store and let her choose the pad. Another option is letting her pick between a few healthy snacks for her lunch or snack bag. Remind her of the use for each item as you pack her bag. For example, as you're packing her sleeping mat say: "Let's pack the unicorn sleeping mat you chose, so when it's time to take a nap at school you'll have something soft to sleep on!"