Born During a Pandemic, Starting VPK Today: Helping Children & Parents Navigate Separation Anxiety
Hello everyone!
Welcome to a new school year! We are so excited to welcome our new students in this fall, and this year many children entering VPK share something unique: they were born during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For many families, those early years looked very different than anyone expected- and we were right along side you when it happened! Mr Alex and Miss Rebecca welcomed their daughter back in 2020, and know the challenges the pandemic brought to parenting. Playgroups were cancelled, family gatherings became smaller, errands were limited, and many children spent much of their first years surrounded by a small circle of familiar adults. While every family's experience was different, it's understandable that the transition to preschool may feel like a particularly big step for both children and their parents.
If you're feeling a mix of excitement, pride, and maybe even a few nerves as your child starts VPK, you're certainly not alone! We understand first-hand how you feel, and we are here to help with our top tips on separation anxiety- for students and for us parents as well!
Separation Anxiety Is Normal
One of the biggest concerns parents have during the first week of preschool is, "What if my child cries when I leave?"
The truth is that tears at drop-off are incredibly common, even for children who are excited about starting school. Separation anxiety is a normal part of early childhood development and reflects the strong attachment children have formed with their caregivers. It is not a sign that a child isn't ready for preschool or that something is wrong.
Research has consistently shown that when children experience warm, responsive relationships with their teachers and consistent classroom routines, they gradually develop a sense of security in their new environment. For most children, what begins as uncertainty quickly turns into excitement as they build friendships, discover new activities, and become familiar with their daily routine.
Parents Feel It Too
Children aren't the only ones experiencing a big transition. Starting preschool is often an emotional milestone for parents as well.
For some families, VPK marks the first time they've been apart from their child for several hours. Others may find themselves wondering if their child will make friends, eat lunch, listen to their teacher, or remember that you'll always come back.
Those feelings are completely understandable!
Children are remarkably perceptive, however. They often look to the adults around them to decide whether a new situation feels safe. Approaching drop-off with calm confidence, even if your heart feels a little heavy, helps send the message that preschool is a wonderful place to be.
Making the First Week Easier
One of the best things you can do is establish a predictable goodbye routine. Whether it's a hug, a high-five, a special phrase, or a wave through the classroom window, keeping your goodbye short and consistent helps children know what to expect.
Preparing your child ahead of time can also make a difference. Reading books about preschool, talking positively about their teachers, and explaining what their day will look like helps replace uncertainty with familiarity.
It's also important to avoid "sneaking away." Although it may seem easier in the moment, leaving without saying goodbye can make it harder for children to build trust in future separations. A loving, confident goodbye reassures your child that you will always return.
During the first week, try to keep morning routines calm and unhurried whenever possible. A predictable morning gives children one less thing to worry about as they adjust to a new environment.
And remember, every child adjusts at their own pace. Some children run through the classroom door on the first day, while others need a little more time to feel comfortable. Both experiences are completely normal.
Trust the Process!
Within just a few weeks, the classroom that once felt unfamiliar often becomes a place filled with favorite toys, trusted teachers, new friendships, and exciting discoveries.
Children are remarkably resilient. With consistency, patience, and encouragement, they adapt to new routines and build confidence through everyday experiences.
At our preschool, we understand that starting VPK is a milestone for the whole family. Our teachers work closely with parents to help every child feel safe, supported, and welcomed from the very first day. We know that building trusting relationships takes time, and we're honored to be part of that journey.
Here's to a Wonderful School Year Ahead
The first goodbye is often the hardest. Before long, many children who once clung tightly at the classroom door are proudly waving goodbye before rushing off to paint, build, explore, and learn with their friends.
To all of our new VPK families: take a deep breath, trust the process, and know that you're not alone. We're here to support both you and your child every step of the way. Here's to a wonderful first year of learning, growing, and making memories together!
Toodleoo!
Academic References:
Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., Waters, E., & Wall, S. (1978). Patterns of attachment: A psychological study of the Strange Situation. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Copple, C., & Bredekamp, S. (Eds.). (2009). Developmentally appropriate practice in early childhood programs serving children from birth through age 8 (3rd ed.). National Association for the Education of Young Children.
Pianta, R. C. (1999). Enhancing relationships between children and teachers. American Psychological Association.
UNICEF Office of Research – Innocenti. (2021). Growing up in the shadow of COVID-19: The impact of the pandemic on children.