Separation & Adjustment

Once a day has been selected to start your child in our program, we request that both child and parents go through a separation and adjustment period. This period is important not only for the child but for the parents as well. Thus, we request that the parents be available during this time period so they can get to know their child's classroom routine, their child's teachers and can share their knowledge of their child with the teachers.

Most children look forward to the first school experience with pleasure and excitement. They see it as a sign of growing up. When they don't fully realize is that school means leaving their parents.

 

First impressions are long lasting. Remember that this is the first day of school for the rest of your child's life. Anxiety of both children and parents can be lessened by following these procedures:

 

1. Remember that everything is new and strange:

1.   The classroom environment and routines; 
2.   All the new children's faces;
3.  The new adults.

 

2. If the separation is gradual and your child adjusts well, it will make for a positive beginning.

 

     For these reasons, our adjustment schedule must be followed closely:

 

 

Visit

Visit-Parent and child visit school together before actually attending. A one hour visit to the class and introduction to the the teacher should occur at this time.

 

 

First Days

1st Day -Parent and child arrive at 9:30am and stay until 11:30am. Both the parent and child stay in the classroom the entire time and leave together after the visit.

 

2nd Day -Parent and child arrive at 9:30am and stay until 12:30pm (after lunch). Teacher will tell the parent to leave (i.e. go for coffee) and return. Both parent and child leave together after this visit.

 

3rd Day -Parent and child will stay from 9:30am to 3:30pm (after nap). The teacher will tell the parent when to leave and return to pick up their child.

 

4th Day -If a teacher feels it is appropriate, a child can spend the entire day alone. If the parent is unable to stay the 3 days (or more if necessary), a grandparent or other available relative can do the adjustment with the child.

 

This gradual separation and reuniting procedure shows your child that you will always come back for him/her while allowing your child to slowly adjust to his/her environment.