Easing Your Preschooler Back to School with Purpose
Our best advice for a successful transition
Summer in Edmonton this year has been a magical time for mud-puddle stomping, rain walks and water play - if you didn’t mind the mosquitoes… We are having fun exploring dinosaurs, fossils and the earth during summer camp, however we are already making plans for the forthcoming school year. As September approaches, transitioning back to school can bring big feelings. At Purpose Preschool, we believe a smooth return is all about building a gentle bridge with love, intent and familiarity.
Here is how you can practically prepare your child for a more comfortable return to the classroom or brand new start.
1. Shift Routine Rhythms Early
Summer schedules are generally relaxed, but children thrive on predictability. Two weeks before school starts, move bedtimes and wake-up calls earlier by 10 minutes each day. Aligning breakfast and snack times with our school schedule/your class times helps their biological clocks adapt seamlessly. We use timers daily (in increments of 5 minutes), perhaps look at putting something similar in place at home.
2. Practice Self-Help Skills
In the spirit of Montessori education, we encourage all children to develop their independence. You can begin to foster this by letting your child practice tasks they should do themselves when at preschool, such as:
Putting on and taking off Velcro shoes and zipper jackets/sweaters - opt out of buttons and laces which are tricky at this age. We develop a try first and then ask a friend/teacher so there is always someone avaiable to assist when it doesnt quite go to plan. Ecplain that you’ll have an outdoor pair of shoes AND an indoor pair, which they can leave at school.
Opening, closing, carrying and recognizing their lunchbox/water bottle - especially for new packs which are stiff and we acknowledge that this is also a new expectation; spilled snacks are a real disappointment! Many children have similar packs and will not be able to read their names so stickers help with identification. Their snack should fit in one container as little ones will not think about finding extra baggies or cartons, practice packing and unpacking together.
Packing backpacks - cute and small bags are easier to identify and carry but children need to transport and pack everything in one bag at the end of class. Talk to them about what they need for each season and practice dressing/underssing, letting them know its okay to change into spare clothing (which you pack plenty of in advance).
Managing bathroom routines with minimal assistance.
Mastering these skills builds massive confidence for and from day one.
3. Talk Through "Big Feelings"
Excitement and separation anxiety often go hand-in-hand. Validate your child’s emotions without judgment. Read comfort books together, like The Kissing Hand, and ask open-ended questions about what they are excited to explore or build this year. Talk about change and start to become familiar with the drive to school, passing by frequently and watching our tour/Instagram videos to see the site. Attend summer camp and orientations offered as repeated exposure cements security and success in time of transition.
Be open about how you’re feeling. It’s okay to miss each other AND have an adventure for the day at preschool. You’ll be back.
Lean on our experienced staff who will work with you and support your child to bring them comfort. We use the anchor of: FIRST CIRCLE, OUTSIDE, SECOND CIRCLE, HOME TIME.
4. Connect with Nature
Our curriculum relies heavily on outdoor discovery. Keep your child in a learning mindset by taking neighborhood walks to collect pinecones, stones, and leaves. This sensory play mirrors the child-led exploration they will experience daily at Purpose.
We Are in This Together
Our educators are ready to provide a soft landing for your family, focusing first on trust and connection. Trust the rhythm, and get ready for a beautiful year of growth. We cannot wait to welcome you!