New situations often create anxiety. We, therefore, request your help in the following ways:

● If you have a family snapshot that your child could bring to class and have as a reference, it would be a helpful reassurance. 

● For early preschoolers (2-year-olds), during the first week of school, they go home after lunch and leave their classroom at 1PM. Depending on the child, the half-day adaptation period may be extended. 

● A short farewell is more comforting for the child than a prolonged goodbye. 

● A favorite stuffed toy may be helpful. We discourage toys from home, but we let them hold on to their soft “loveys” if they are experiencing stress adjusting to new surroundings. 

● We do not allow children to use pacifiers; we ask that families find an alternative plan before the start of the school year. 

● There is nothing as reassuring as being picked up promptly. Your child will get used to the routine of being picked up at the same time, therefore decreasing anxiety. 

● Parents may call to see how their child’s day is going if it has been challenging.