Drop Off Support For Parents

Supporting Your Child (and Yourself!) Through Daily Transitions

So Bitter-Sweet...

Whether your baby is 6 months or 6 years old, handing them over at drop-off can tug at your heart. What if something goes wrong? What if your child likes being with their teacher more than being with you?

You’re not alone in these thoughts. Many parents have that moment of doubt:

“Am I giving up something by letting someone else care for my child?”

Here’s the truth: You are not giving anything up. In fact, you're giving your child more.

Building a bond with a caring teacher will only strengthen your child’s attachment to you—not replace it. Experiencing a new caregiver helps children better appreciate their unique connection with you and gives them tools to grow into confident, independent little humans.

💡 Think of It This Way...

Maybe your child's teacher is especially great at routines or soothing nap times—things that might not be your strong suit. Those are gifts you're giving your child. And only you bring your unique love, intuition, and understanding of your child to the table. Together, you and your child's teacher are forming a team that supports your child’s growth.

Letting go just a little allows your child to grow a whole lot.

🎒 What Does a Healthy Drop-Off / Pick-Up Look Like?

Even 10 minutes is enough time for a calm, confident transition once your child is comfortable with the routine.

Drop-Off Tips

• 💬 Greet the teacher and let them know how your child is feeling that day.

• 🧺 Help put away your child’s belongings.

• 🐾 Give a confident goodbye. (Even if your child protests—this helps them feel safe and trust the routine.)

• 🚪 Leave promptly and positively.

Pick-Up Tips

• 😊 Teacher will give a short summary of your child’s day.

• 🎨 Check your child’s cubby for artwork and notes.

• 🧼 Check the dry-erase board for reminders or completed tasks.

• 👋 Say goodbye to the classroom and friends before heading out.

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📚 Great Books for Tough Goodbyes

These sweet picture books can help your child (and you!) process those big emotions.

• Geraldine's Blanket by Holly Keller

• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

• The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown

• Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes

• When Mama Comes Home Tonight by Eileen Spinelli

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🚦 Should You Sneak Away?

We know it’s tempting to slip out while your child is busy, especially after a few tearful mornings. But honesty builds trust.

If you say goodbye, mean it.If you’re staying for a minute, don’t say goodbye yet.

It’s okay if your child cries—that’s how they’re telling you this matters. Ask for a text update or call from the teacher to hear how your child settled in.

🌈 The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Most kids go through phases when adjusting to care. With a consistent drop-off routine, things really do get easier.

Transition Phases:

• Objection: Your child resists, cries, or avoids going in. Stay upbeat, and lean on your teacher for support.

• Reluctant Interest: They're curious but clingy. Spend a moment, then hand off confidently.

• Active Interest: They run in with excitement! They’re showing confidence—even if they still fuss a little when saying goodbye.

• Setbacks: Life changes (like a move or new sibling) can restart the tears. Go back to your routine—it helps more than you know.

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💬 Frequently Asked Questions

❓ My child is the only one crying—what am I doing wrong?👉 Probably nothing. Kids go through phases, and some are more sensitive to transitions. If you’re feeling unsure, talk to the teacher and try a 2-week plan together.

❓ My child doesn’t fuss at all. Is that a bad sign?👉 Not at all! They may be naturally independent, or really enjoying the classroom. Just know that changes in behavior may still happen later—and that’s normal, too.

❓ Should I come back early if they’re having a hard time?👉 We understand the urge, but coming early may send the message that school isn’t safe. A consistent schedule helps your child settle and build strong relationships.

🧠 Fun fact: Children don’t understand time the way adults do until around age 7. So what feels like “just 10 minutes early” to you might feel like a big disruption to them.

❓ My child cries at pick-up. Does that mean they had a bad day?👉 Nope! Pick-up tears are often about emotional release after holding it together all day. It’s a sign they feel safe enough to let their big feelings out with you.

🤝 Let’s Partner Together

If you ever need help with transitions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you—and your child—every step of the way. 💛

Want to learn more about healthy separation and emotional development? Here are some great parent-friendly resources:

• Zero to Three – Tips on Separation

• PBS for Parents – Drop-Off Tips

• Janet Lansbury – Separation Anxiety