Sending your little one off to preschool for the first time is a big milestone, for both of you! Whether your child is attending a two-day program or heading to school every day, a little preparation can make those first weeks much smoother. Every preschool is different, so be sure to check with your program about their specific expectations. Here are some tips to get ready for the first year.
Gather Your Preschool Essentials 
Choose a Full-Size Backpack
A full-size backpack gives plenty of room for artwork, extra clothes, jackets, lunchboxes, and everything that seems to magically come home each day.
Lunchbox & Water Bottle
If your child will eat lunch at school, practice using their lunchbox before the first day.
Make sure they can:
● Open and close it independently
● Zip and unzip the lunch bag
● Open their water bottle without help
The more they can do on their own, the more confident they’ll feel.
Label Everything
Backpacks, jackets, water bottles, lunchboxes and even hats! Permanent marker works great, or you can use washable name labels. Including both first and last names.
Practice Independence
Preschool is full of opportunities for kids to build confidence by doing things themselves.
Bathroom Skills
If your program requires potty training, practice the entire routine:
● Pulling clothes up and down
● Using a regular child-sized toilet
● Washing hands independently
One local tip: the children’s restroom at the Manhattan Public Library has child-sized toilets and sinks, making it a great place to practice before school starts.
Lunch Practice
A lunchbox that’s difficult to open can quickly become frustrating. Spend a few lunches at home practicing opening containers, unzipping lunch bags, and using any utensils they’ll need. When possible, pack foods your child can open and eat independently.
Make Drop-Off Easier 
It’s completely normal for both parents and children to feel nervous.
Keep goodbyes short, positive, and consistent. A simple routine of hugs, kisses, and a cheerful “I’ll be back after school because I always come back” can provide a lot of reassurance. Many families also love reading The Kissing Hand before school starts. Some even draw matching hearts or stars on their hands or wrists as a little reminder that they’re connected throughout the day.
Help Your Child Know What to Expect
If your preschool offers an open house or classroom tour, go and also take a few pictures. Looking through them together before school starts can help your child feel more familiar with their new classroom, teachers, and routines. Reading books about starting preschool is another great way to ease first-day jitters.
Connect After School
Instead of asking, “How was school?” try asking specific questions:
● What was your favorite part today?
● Who did you play with?
● What made you laugh?
● What story did your teacher read?
If your school shares classroom updates or photos, use those as conversation starters. Kids often remember much more when they have something specific to talk about.
One Last Tip 
Want those adorable first-day photos without the stress?
Take them the weekend before school starts. You’ll have plenty of time for smiles, outfit changes, and coloring a “First Day of Preschool” sign without worrying about being late on the actual first day.
Most importantly, remember that the first few weeks are an adjustment for everyone. Give yourself and your little one lots of grace. Before you know it, preschool drop-offs will become just another part of your family’s routine.
