5 Potential Back-to-Preschool Issues (And How to Solve Them)

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Starting preschool again after the carefree days of summer can be tough on both toddlers and their parents. The transition back to structure, schedules, and separation can bring up all sorts of challenges. But with the right strategies, you can make this shift much smoother for your little one.

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Here are 5 common problems that often arise, why they happen, and practical tips to remedy them:

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Why it happens: After spending all summer at home with family, toddlers can have a very hard time separating from parents and going to preschool. The familiarity and comfort of home is suddenly disrupted.

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TIPS FOR PARENTS

- Practice short separations at home in the weeks before school starts

- Use a goodbye routine like a hug, high-five, and "I love you"

- Provide a comfort item like a stuffed animal to bring to school

- Reassure your child that you will be back to pick them up

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Why it happens: The structured schedule of preschool - with set wake up times, meal times, nap times, etc. - can be a big change from the more relaxed summer. Toddlers struggle to adapt.

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TIPS FOR PARENTS

- Start transitioning to an earlier bedtime and wake up time before school begins

- Establish a consistent morning and evening routine at home

- Talk through the daily preschool schedule so your child knows what to expect

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Why it happens: Time away from the preschool environment can lead to regression in skills like sharing, listening, and emotional regulation. Toddlers may act out more.

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TIPS FOR PARENTS

- Reinforce good behavior with praise and small rewards

- Role-play social scenarios and practice coping strategies

- Communicate regularly with the teacher about any concerns

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Why it happens: The excitement and stimulation of returning to preschool can disrupt toddlers' sleep patterns, making it harder for them to fall and stay asleep.

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TIPS FOR PARENTS

- Ensure your child is getting enough age-appropriate sleep

- Create a calming bedtime routine to signal it's time to wind down

- Limit screen time before bed and keep the sleep environment dark and cool

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Why it happens: If a toddler's preschool friends went to different programs over the summer, they may have a harder time reconnecting and re-establishing those social bonds.

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TIPS FOR PARENTS

- Set up playdates with classmates before school starts

- Talk to the teacher about seating your child with familiar friends

- Encourage social interactions and sharing at home

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With patience, preparation, and these practical strategies, you can make the back-to-preschool transition a breeze for your toddler. Soon they'll be thriving in their classroom community again.

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