How to Help Toddlers Transition to Preschool

As much as the idea of your baby being old enough to start preschool may make you sniffle, this transition can be even harder for your toddler. Although many toddlers will be thrilled by the idea of being a "big kid," adjusting to the structure, rules and social interactions of a classroom can be challenging for any child, particularly if he hasn't been in an organized day care before. Some children take to preschool immediately, while others take a few weeks to get into the swing of things, but preparing your child in advance should make the transition smoother.

Instructions

    • 1

      Adjust your toddler's meal and sleep schedule to match the schedule of his future preschool class. If he's used to eating lunch at 11:00, he'll be cranky and hungry if his preschool class doesn't eat until noon. Likewise, he'll be nodding off at the table if preschool nap time is later than he's used to. Slowly tweak his schedule over the course of a few weeks before he begins school.

    • 2

      Arrange play dates and other social opportunities with other toddlers if your child isn't already in day care. Once he begins preschool, he'll need to play well with other children, and toddlers who aren't used to being around other kids may struggle to take turns and share.

    • 3

      Take your toddler to visit the school and his classroom once or twice in the week before he begins. As long as his teachers agree, let him stay and play in the classroom for an hour or so while you stay nearby. He'll be able to meet other children and get comfortable in the room while you're there to make him feel comfortable.

    • 4

      Explain on the night before his first day that he's going to be starting preschool the next day. Remind him of all the fun toys he played with and use an excited voice to tell him how much he will enjoy preschool. Let him help you choose an outfit to wear the next day and pack up his backpack. You may also read a story book about beginning preschool before he goes to sleep.

    • 5

      Take him into his classroom and let his teacher take control by setting him up with an activity to do. Go over and say good-bye, letting him know you'll be back later to pick him up. No matter how upset he becomes, give him a kiss and hug and leave the room. Dragging out an emotional good-bye makes it harder for both of you to separate from one another.

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