Getting readySeptember 29, 2026·5 min read
13 tips for starting preschool
Is your child starting preschool for the first time? These tips help both of you make a smooth start at A+ Academy.
Visit a library story time
Go during read-aloud time so your child gets used to hearing someone other than family read a book in a group.
Start the school sleep schedule
Set an early bedtime and a school wake-up time a few weeks before the first day, so your child has time to adjust.
Ask about bathroom routines
Ask us how potty time works in class, then talk it through with your child so they feel comfortable.
Set up playdates
Meet up with kids who will be in your child's class. Parents usually come along to these first playdates.
Visit the school together
Schedule a tour of A+ Academy with your child to see the classroom and meet the teacher before the first day.
Make a "My new school" book
Take photos of the school or your child in front of it and add simple words: "This is me at school. This is my favorite shirt. This is Mommy picking me up."
Pick a backpack together
Let your child choose a new backpack, then write their name on it together.
Share your school stories
Tell stories about when you went to school and how it felt. Look at childhood photos of yourself and other family members together.
Practice short goodbyes
If your child has never been cared for by someone else, leave them for short times with friends or relatives. Remind them you always come back and they are safe.
Lend them something of yours
Give your child a scarf or bandana of yours, so they know you'll come back to get it.
Read books about school
Try The Kissing Hand (Audrey Penn), David Goes to School (David Shannon), Will I Have a Friend? (Miriam Cohen), First Day of School (Anne Rockwell), When I Miss You (Cornelia Maude Spelman), Take a Kiss to School (Angela McAllister), It's Time for Preschool (Esme Raj Codell) and A Pocketful of Kisses (Audrey Penn).
Bring a special object
Choose something from home to take to school, like a book to share or a small pillow for rest time.
Give it time
Separation is a process. Your child, and you too, may need a little time to feel at home. That's normal, and we're here to help.