Welcome to the Older Toddler classroom! For some of you this is your first time in our classroom and it is an exciting milestone in your child’s life.  Your child is embarking on a journey that will lead him/her on many roads of discovery and learning.  As wonderful as this new experience is, it can also be quite stressful for your child.  New situations and change can be unsettling for all of us.  It’s common for even the most outgoing child to be anxious the first days in a new classroom.  We have provided a few suggestions for assisting your child during this time.  Remember that the Older Toddler teachers are available to provide support and assistance, making your child’s first days happy and enjoyable and everyday thereafter.

• Prepare your child for a new experience by explaining what to expect. Answer all questions directly and honestly.
• Always have a positive attitude. Young children are aware of your feelings. Your enthusiasm will assure your child that their new class can be fun and exciting place.
• Bring in photo(s) from home so they can check on you during the day.
• Clearly state to your child when you will return.  It may also be helpful to discuss what will happen when you are reunited.
• Maintain a clear good-bye routine.  This may include saying to your child that you are leaving in three minutes, a kiss and a hug, or wave from the window.  Once you tell your child you are leaving, it’s important to follow through. Avoid sneaking out.  This seems to encourage children to become less trusting and make the next day of class even harder.