Starting Pre-K is an exciting milestone for both children and their families! Whether this is your first time sending a child to school or you’ve done it before, preparing for the first day can make the transition smoother, more enjoyable, and less stressful for everyone. Here are some simple ways to get your child—and yourself—ready for a great start at MECK Pre-K this fall.
- Don’t Oversell the First Day
While it’s important to be positive and encouraging, try not to make the first day feel like a huge, overwhelming event. Overselling it as “the biggest day ever” can create pressure or anxiety. Instead, keep the tone light and casual—just another fun, normal part of growing up. This can help your child feel calm and ready, rather than nervous about living up to big expectations.
Luckily, high-quality pre-K programs like MECK Pre-K use a staggered entry schedule that helps children get used to the classroom, teachers and routines when classrooms are less crowded.
- Talk About What to Expect
Spend time talking with your child about what Pre-K will be like. Describe the classroom, the teachers, and some of the fun things they’ll do—like playing, reading, and making new friends. MECK Pre-K has a library of classroom videos you could watch with your child, so they can see what they will be doing. Check out our YouTube page to find a video that will appeal to your child. Some are even in Spanish! The more familiar Pre-K feels, the more confident your child will be.
- Establish a Daily Routine Early
A predictable daily routine helps kids feel secure. A few weeks before school starts, begin practicing school-year habits like waking up, eating breakfast, and going to bed at consistent times. This makes the first few days of Pre-K feel natural rather than rushed or overwhelming.
- Practice Independence Skills
Pre-K helps kids build independence, but practicing at home gives them a head start! Let your child try putting on their own shoes, zipping jackets, washing hands, or opening lunch containers. These small tasks build confidence and make classroom life easier.
- Read Books About Starting School
There are many wonderful children’s books about going to school for the first time. Reading these together can help your child process feelings of excitement or nervousness and understand what to expect. Look for titles like “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn or “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney. You can get these at your local library, and while you are there, ask a children’s librarian for more recommendations.
- Visit the School (If Possible)
If your child’s MECK Pre-K classroom is in a center that’s open during the summer, or if there’s an open house or meet-the-teacher event—take advantage of it! Seeing the room, meeting the teacher, and getting familiar with the space can make the first day feel less intimidating.
- Keep a Positive Attitude
Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. Stay positive, excited, and encouraging about this big step. Even if you feel a little nervous, focus on the wonderful experiences your child is about to have! You can also familiarize yourself with the curriculum and the classroom by watching some of MECK Pre-K’s “Inside the Classroom” videos.
- Plan for the First Day Together
Involve your child in picking their first-day outfit or packing their backpack. This gives them a sense of control and excitement about starting Pre-K.
- A Big Step Toward a Bright Future
Starting Pre-K is the beginning of an amazing journey of learning, growing, and making friends. With a little preparation—and the right balance of excitement and calm—you can help your child step confidently into their classroom and set the stage for a successful year!
About MECK Pre-K
MECK Pre-K is a high-quality pre-K program open to all four-year-old children in Mecklenburg County at no cost to families. Classrooms are located in licensed childcare centers and taught by licensed teachers and highly qualified assistant teachers. You can apply online at MeckPreK.org.
Do you have a child who is not old enough for pre-K this year? Sign up for our email list and be notified when they’re eligible for MECK Pre-K. Simply go to MECKPrek.org/future-meck-pre-k-students and select your child’s age group.