3 Effective Drop Off Tips

Whether it’s your first day or your 50th, morning drop off can be a whirlwind of emotions! We talked to some Tierra Encantada parents for advice on how to handle every morning in a way that helps kids, parents and teachers!

On Handling the Very First Day of Care:

“On the first day of daycare, have a plan for something nice for yourself after drop-off (e.g., go grab a cup of coffee, call a good friend, or check in with your partner, etc).  Just give yourself a moment to collect, and take a breath before launching into your work day.

On Finding a Routine: 

“It can take a while to get into the swing of things, and the more consistent you can be the better! It could be a set morning routine at home, a special song played on the car ride over, or a cute goodbye that you create together. Eventually, you’ll find that they are comfortable enough to go right into the classroom!”

“What helped us a bit was I would always and only drop off our daughter as an avion (airplane) each morning… We would do the typical countdown airplane noises into her teacher’s arms, and then I would run quickly to the window to say goodbye. It gave consistency, FUN and a way to say goodbye, that kept her looking forward to the next step (fun game, waving at mom).”

On Goodbyes:

“Give an upbeat and positive goodbye- and then make a swift exit. It can be so hard to walk away from your little one, but it can be harder for everyone if you linger. Crying is a normal response to someone you love walking away- but within 10 minutes, they’ll be enjoying breakfast or playing with their amigos, and things will be great!”

Incorporating these three simple yet effective strategies can significantly streamline your morning routine and make drop off a breeze. By establishing a consistent routine, creating a well-organized launch pad, and fostering open communication with your child, you’re setting the stage for smoother transitions and less stress. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for your family and adapting as needed. Here’s to happier mornings and successful drop-offs!