Low-stakes practice. Kids don't need to be "ready" — they need to feel curious, not scared.
- Practical skills
Put on and take off a backpack independently
Open their own lunchbox and food packaging
Use the bathroom and wash hands without help
Zip and unzip a jacket
Sit through a 20-minute meal
Follow a 3-step instruction ("put shoes on, grab backpack, meet me at the door")
- Emotional prep
Talk about big feelings — nervous, excited, proud
Visit the school building or playground if you can
Read picture books set at school
Meet the teacher if offered
Role-play drop-off — goodbyes don't have to be long
- Routine
Establish bedtime two weeks before school starts
Practice a school-morning wakeup for a few days
Pack the backpack together the night before
Decide on the first-day outfit (together, not alone)
- For parents
Submit all forms. Double-check allergies listed.
Note pickup procedures in your phone
Plan something low-key for that first afternoon
Set yourself up with a friend to talk to after drop-off
The first week will be exhausting no matter what. Don't skip your own bedtime.