How to Talk to Your Child About Starting Preschool or Kindergarten
The first day of school is a big milestone for both children and parents. Whether your child is starting preschool or entering kindergarten, the transition often comes with a mix of excitement, curiosity, and sometimes a little anxiety. Preparing your child emotionally and socially can make a huge difference in creating a positive experience from day one.
At Kids Campus, with Early Childhood Learning Centers in Lynbrook and Valley Stream, we understand that entering preschool or kindergarten is an important step in your child’s growth. Our caring teachers and nurturing environment help ease this transition, but parents also play a crucial role in preparing children at home.
Why Talking About Starting Preschool Matters
Children thrive on routine and predictability. Starting preschool introduces many new experiences—meeting teachers, making friends, following schedules—that can feel overwhelming if not addressed ahead of time.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, having open conversations with your child about what to expect helps reduce anxiety and build excitement for the change. By discussing school positively, you’re laying the foundation for a smooth and confident start.
Tips for Talking to Your Child About Preschool or Kindergarten
1. Start the Conversation Early
Bring up the idea of starting preschool weeks, or even months, before the first day. Keep the conversation light and positive. Use phrases like, “You’ll get to play with new toys, make friends, and learn fun things.”
2. Read Books Together About School
Storytime is one of the best ways to introduce new ideas. Books about going to school can help your child understand routines and emotions. Titles like The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing or Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate can be helpful.
Pro tip: When reading together, ask your child how they think the characters are feeling. This helps them process their own emotions about starting school.
3. Visit the School Ahead of Time
Familiarity reduces anxiety. Many centers, including Kids Campus Programs, encourage families to visit the classrooms before the first day. Walk around, meet teachers, and show your child where they’ll hang their backpack. This builds comfort and a sense of belonging.
4. Encourage Independence Skills
Simple skills such as putting on shoes, washing hands, or opening a lunchbox can give your child confidence. Talk about how these abilities will help them when they’re starting preschool or kindergarten.
5. Acknowledge Feelings
It’s normal for children to feel nervous. Let your child know that it’s okay to miss mom or dad, but reassure them that you’ll be back at the end of the day. The Child Mind Institute recommends validating emotions while emphasizing the exciting parts of school.
Common Questions Children May Ask
“Will you stay with me?”
Let your child know that teachers will take care of them and you’ll return after school.“What if I don’t make friends?”
Reassure them that everyone is new and teachers will help them meet classmates.“What will I do all day?”
Explain that they’ll play, learn, have snacks, rest, and spend time with friends.
Preparing for the First Day Together
In addition to conversations, create a first-day routine that helps your child feel ready:
Pack the backpack together so your child feels ownership over their school items.
Set a bedtime routine to ensure they’re rested and ready.
Plan a special goodbye ritual, such as a hug, high-five, or short phrase you repeat daily.
At Kids Campus, our teachers help children adjust quickly with warm greetings and engaging activities. Parents are encouraged to keep goodbyes short and confident—children often model their parents’ emotions.
How Parents Can Stay Involved
Talking about school doesn’t end on the first day. Continue asking your child about what they learned, who they played with, and what they enjoyed most. Celebrate small successes and encourage ongoing conversations.
To learn more about our early childhood programs and how we support children who are starting preschool, visit our school page.
Final Thoughts
The journey of starting preschool or kindergarten is one of the most important transitions in a child’s life. With preparation, patience, and positivity, parents can help children feel excited, confident, and ready to learn.
At Kids Campus, our nurturing environment, engaging curriculum, and supportive teachers make the transition smoother for both children and families. If you’re preparing your child for preschool or kindergarten in Lynbrook or Valley Stream, we invite you to explore our programs and see how we can partner in your child’s educational journey.
