Develop a consistent morning routine that starts at home and ends at ATU 

• ex: 1 kiss when we leave our home, 2 kisses when we get out of the car, 3 kisses when it’s time for parent to leave and blowing 4 kisses as parent exits school

Calm yourself as best you can. Children naturally mirror our emotions and moods (ask me about mirror neurons) so the better you are able to reduce your anxieties the easier it will be for your child. If you are struggling, we encourage you to ask a family member to take over drop-offs for a while if possible.

Avoid lingering after you’ve said goodbye. This is very hard on small children. Feel free to take your time at drop-off but once you say you’re leaving - you need to go (and don’t run back in). If you forget something let the office know and we’ll help!

Allow a comfort object. This can be something your child is already connected to or something new you use just for drop-offs!

Lean on your school administrators if you need help pulling yourself away! We are here to help!

Consider scheduling transition visits.

We will invite you to stay with your child during the visit prior to your child’s first day. 

Typically 1 to 3 visits are plenty (let’s chat about what your child needs).

We will ask you to sit in a “grown up” chair as you allow your child to explore the environment. The key is for you to stay put in your chair so your child can be in control of how they explore. They will get used to leaving you before you have to leave them!