1. Talk to your child about the exciting new class that they will be moving to ahead of time. Celebrate with your child that they’re another year older and they get to move to a new room.
2. Talk to your child about how fun it will be to meet his or her new teachers. If it helps your child, let him or her bring a small something to their current teachers as a way of saying goodbye.
3. When you drop your child off at their new classroom, do not linger at the door. Say a quick goodbye and reassure your child you will be back to pick them up. Then leave promptly and allow your child to acclimate to the class.
   • It is our desire that every child in the Preschool Ministry feel comfortable and safe in the preschool rooms.
   • It is natural for preschoolers to be apprehensive of new surroundings, like a new room with new teachers.
   • If your child is upset, our teachers will comfort your child.
   • If the teachers are unable to calm your child after a period of time, we will then call you.
   • Don’t give up! Consistency is the key. Bringing your child to church on a consistent basis is the way to help them get accustomed to his or her new surroundings.
4. When you come back to pick up your child, celebrate with them the excitement of being in a new room and having new teachers. Be excited for them that they had a good morning in their new class. Remind them that you kept your promise and came back just like you said you would.

We love our little ones in the Preschool Ministry and we want them to have a great first day. However, we know some preschoolers will need a little adjustment time and we are prepared for each child’s needs. Working together as a team, we can help your child get a great start to the new year.

Rachel Merchant

Director of Preschool Ministries