Easing Drop-Off: What Parents Can Do in the First Weeks of Preschool and beyond

We are a two weeks in to the new school year, and many families are looking for practical, parent-focused strategies to make drop-off smoother. If attachment and emotional security are priorities, small, consistent actions from parents/caregivers can create a sense of safety that carries through the day. Here are clear, doable tips for parents to ease the drop-off transition for preschoolers and toddlers.

1) Create a predictable goodbye ritual

- Establish a short, loving routine you both practice each morning.

- Example: “Three-second hug, kiss on the forehead, and a special phrase: ‘I’ll see you after nap time.’”

- Keep it brief and positive. Children pick up on rushing or worry—your calm pace signals safety.

2) Set up a comforting cue

- Develop a familiar cue that signals “I’m here and I’m calm.” This could be:

- A specific handshake, high-five, or wave you both love.

- A gentle phrase you say as you leave (e.g., “You’ve got this, friend!”).

- Use the cue consistently at drop-off so your child associates it with safety and your support.

3) Build a quick, honest routine at home

- Mirror the school day at home when possible: a predictable morning sequence, a snack, a short “circle time”

talk about feelings, and a calm-down routine.

- Practice short pretend drop-offs with a preferred toy and a timer (e.g., “We’ll practice saying goodbye for 2 minutes”). Role-play reduces surprises on the real day.

4) Name and validate feelings, then move toward the activity

- Acknowledge emotions in the moment: “I see you’re worried about today. It’s okay to feel that way.”

- Offer a simple, concrete plan: “After you say goodbye, you’ll go to circle time, then you’ll pick a sticker at the art table.”

- Then redirect to the next activity with enthusiasm and a warm tone.

5) Prepare a “home-to-school bridge” you both can trust

- Pack a small, familiar item from home in your child’s backpack or cubby (a favorite photo)

- Send a quick text or note to the teacher if you’re anxious; it helps you process while reinforcing a shared, consistent approach.

6) Keep departures brief, then follow through with connection

- Short departures with a clear boundary reduce prolonged goodbyes, which can increase anxiety.

- After the drop-off, send a quick text or two-sentence note via Brightwheel to the teacher:

This reinforces trust and keeps you in the loop.

7) Practice self-regulation for parents

- Your calm matters. If you’re anxious, your child may mirror that energy.

- Build your own quick rituals: a 60-second deep-breathing exercise, a glass of water, or a quick walk before

drop-off to reset.

- Remember: tears are a normal part of the process. Acknowledging them without judgment helps your child learn they can rely on you and other trusted adults.

8) What to do if tears continue or escalate

- Stay present and calm. Offer a brief, reassuring signal you’ll return (e.g., “I’ll come back after circle time.”).

- Resist the urge to retract immediately; children often settle once the adult steps away.

- If separation anxiety is persistent, coordinate with the teacher to increase soothing cues (a favorite song during transitions, a sensory toy, or a quiet corner).

As we wrap up our first few weeks, the message is clear: small, steady steps beat big upheavals. When families pair predictable goodbyes with gentle, honest conversations, preschoolers learn to trust their caregivers, their teachers, and themselves. At Fundamentals Early Learning Academy, we celebrate every smile, every wave, and every little hurdle overcome—knowing these moments build lasting attachment and resilience.

Key takeaways for close-out:

- Consistency matters: predictable routines reduce anxiety and foster security.

- Feelings are welcome: naming and validating emotions helps children transition with confidence.

- Partnership is everything: home-to-school communication strengthens trust and continuity.

- Self-care for parents/caregivers: calm, patient energy models coping and supports smoother drop-offs.

Thank you for reading, and thank you to families and staff for the courage, care, and collaboration that make these first weeks so hopeful. Here’s to a bright, connected start to the year for all our little learners.

With warm wishes,

Fundamentals Early Learning Academy Team