Supporting Your Child Through First-Day Separation Anxiety
Starting preschool is a beautiful milestone—one filled with curiosity, new relationships, and endless opportunities for growth. At Pegasus International Preschool, we honour the transition as an important part of your child’s learning journey. In Reggio-inspired practice, we see each child as capable, resilient, and full of potential. With the right support, children learn to trust their new environment and develop the confidence to explore it independently.
This guide aims to support you, the parent, as you navigate the emotions that may arise during your child’s first days in school.
1. Expect Emotions—Your Child’s and Your Own
Separation anxiety is a natural, healthy response. It shows that your child has a strong attachment to you. You may also feel anxious, excited, or uncertain—and that is completely normal.
In the Reggio philosophy, emotions are meaningful expressions. They are not obstacles to be rushed but experiences to be understood and supported
2. Preparation Begins at Home
You can help your child settle into their new environment by building simple, predictable routines:
• Speak positively about school
• Read stories about starting school
• Establish a steady morning rhythm
• Visit the school beforehand, if possible
These small experiences build familiarity and ease the transition.
3. The First Day: Keep Drop-Off Short and Warm
Children take emotional cues from their parents. A calm, confident goodbye helps your child feel secure.
• Bring your child to the teacher
• Make eye contact, offer a warm hug
• Say a simple, honest goodbye
Avoid lingering too long—short, steady farewells help children settle more quickly.
Your child may cry, cling, or resist. This is expected, and our teachers are trained to comfort, guide, and support your child with sensitivity and care.
4. Trust the Process and Trust Your Child
Every child adapts in their own time. Some settle within minutes; others may need days or weeks. This is all part of learning to trust new adults, new routines, and their own ability to cope.
We honour each child’s emotional rhythm and respond gently to their needs.
5. How the Pegasus Team Supports You
Your child’s well-being is our priority, and we believe strong communication builds trust.
During the first weeks:
• If your child cries for more than 30 minutes, we will update you immediately.
• We will keep you posted on essential care moments such as:
o Toileting and poo
o Eating and appetite
o Napping and rest patterns
• We will share key observations about your child’s adjustment, friendships, and participation.
Our goal is to ensure you feel connected, reassured, and confident that your child is safe and supported.
6. Celebrate Small Successes
Perhaps your child cried less today.
Perhaps they began playing with a new friend.
These are meaningful milestones. Celebrate them gently and trust that your child is learning, adapting, and growing stronger each day.
At Pegasus, You Are Not Alone
Separation is a shared journey. Our environment, relationships, and daily practices are designed to help children feel at home. Together, we will guide your child toward independence, belonging, and joyful learning.
👉 Book a visit to Pegasus International Preschool
Come for a tour, meet our teachers, and let us help you overcome those anxieties.
