Involving your kids in getting ready for childcare is a great way to make them excited. Bring your kid shopping and let him or her to pick a new bag, water bottle, pair of shoes, etc. Before the first day of preschool, have fun labelling the items with sticker labels with your kid.

Make a promise with your kid and let your kid know what time you will be in school to bring his/her home. Make sure you arrive at the preschool in ample time to be able to welcome your child with open arms.

Start practicing the new bedtime and wake-up time your child will need for preschool several weeks before school actually starts – pick a bedtime that will provide a good night’s rest and a wake-up time early enough so neither of you have to rush in the morning. This will give both of you time to adjust.

Ask your little one about their feelings about going to school and reassure them that it is normal to feel excited, worried or any other emotions. Starting something new can feel scary and big – but it can also be lots of fun! Reassure your child that you will be there to pick them up at the end of the day and talk about what those routines will look like, too.