With the back-to-school season around the corner, I can't help but think about the anxiety that comes with sending our little ones off to daycare, preschool, or even just adjusting to a new routine.
Can you relate?
I’ve been there. My kids are in middle school now, and somehow (yes, somehow) going back to school is easier than it was when they were younger. But I still remember the days when it felt like they were too young to be away from me.
Let’s Rewind to the First Time I had to Prepare Liam for Pre-K.
I was overwhelmed by the thought of how this new routine would affect him—and, let’s be honest, how it would affect me.
I can still picture that evening so clearly. I sat on the floor, surrounded by all the things I thought he might need: snacks, extra clothes, his favorite toy. I packed his little bag, which was almost as big as he was, but something still felt like it was missing. I didn’t know what, but I just knew there was something more I needed to do to help him—and me—get through this change.
And then it hit me. He needed something familiar, something that would bring him comfort when he was away from home. So, I grabbed one of his extra soft baby blankets—his beloved nanat, his best buddy, carrying the smell of home and the sense of security he would need when away from me.
Fast Forward to Today.
I can’t tell you how many parents have shared similar stories—how a simple, comforting object like a security blanket made all the difference during their child’s transition to a new environment.
Today, teachers encourage parents to bring a comforting object for an easier transition. Yes!
Still Feel a Little Bit Anxious? Here are 6 Proven Tips that Helped Me Get Through our First Day.
As you’re getting ready to send your little one off for their first day at preschool or daycare, here are a few tips that helped me. Even though my kids are older now, I still feel unprepared as the big day approaches—yes, it’s still a big day even when they’re in middle school! Let’s hope these tips help you a little bit too.
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Ease Them Into the New Routine
I remember those weeks before Liam started preschool. We would sit together talking about what to expect—like the fun games he’d play, the new friends he’d meet, and how I’d always be there to pick him up at the end of the day. It was our way of slowly getting used to the idea of being apart, and it made that first day a little less daunting. -
Bring a Comforting Object
Have your child bring a little reminder of home to ease their separation anxiety. If they don’t have a favorite doll or toy, even a beloved book or a sippy cup filled with their favorite drink can do the trick. These comforting objects can provide a real sense of security to kids in an unfamiliar environment. Liam had his childhood blanket, his nanat, packed in his bag, and it gave me peace of mind knowing he could reach for it whenever he needed comfort. -
Introduce Comforting Rituals
Creating a goodbye routine with Liam was one of the best things I did. We came up with our own little ritual—a special hug followed by a “See you later, alligator!” It became something he looked forward to, something that gave him comfort and a sense of predictability. And of course, slipping his blanket into his bag became part of that routine—a little piece of home he could carry with him. -
Visit the School Together
If you can, take your child to visit the school before their first day. I remember walking Liam through his classroom, pointing out all the different activities, and casually mentioning how much fun he was going to have. This made the place feel more familiar to him and exciting, knowing all the new toys and games he’d get to play with. -
Keep Calm and Confident
I can’t stress this enough—kids are so perceptive. They pick up on our emotions, even when we try to hide them. Staying calm and confident about the transition was key for Liam. If he had sensed that I was anxious or worried, it would have made him feel the same. So, I took deep breaths, reminded myself that everything would be okay, and projected that confidence to him. -
Trust the Process
Adjusting to being away from you can take time, and that’s okay. I had to learn to trust that Liam was learning, growing, and becoming more independent. It took time, and there were days when he didn’t want to go, and honestly, I didn’t want to send him. But each day, I saw him come out of his shell a little more, and that made it all worth it. Trusting the process wasn’t easy, but it was necessary—for both of us. Each successful day made the next one a little easier.
Preparing your child for preschool is a journey, and it’s not just about easing their anxieties—it’s about easing your own too. I’ve come a long way since that first school drop-off, and I’m happy to share how Nanat’s products, like our extra soft baby blankets, can help make this transition a little smoother for your family. Whether it’s a comforting blanket or a simple routine, these small things can make a big difference in your child’s experience.
Here’s to a school year filled with growth, joy, and comfort!
xo,
Melanie