Settling In Without the Tears: 5 Teacher-Tested Ways to Help Your Child Thrive From Day One

By Issy Ebersohn, B.Ed. (Early Childhood), Founder of Everwood Early EducationPublished: 17 May 2025 | Reading time: 5 minutes

Why those first days matter

A positive start sets the emotional tone for your child’s entire early-learning journey. Children who feel safe and known from day one explore more boldly, form friendships sooner and carry that confidence into school. Below are the strategies our educators—and many Everwood parents—swear by.

1 | Practice “mini goodbyes” before the big day

What it looks like:In the week leading up to enrolment, pop next-door for five minutes, wave goodbye, then return. Gradually stretch the time to 20–30 minutes.

Why it works:Your child learns that farewells aren’t forever—and that you always come back.

Everwood tip: During orientation visits, stay for the first 10 minutes, then slip out for a coffee in Reception. We’ll ring you if little one doesn’t settle after 15 minutes (they almost always do).

2 | Pick one goodbye ritual and stick to it

Children read consistency as security. Whether it’s a special handshake, a kiss on each cheek or a whispered mantra (“Be brave, be kind”), use the same ritual at every drop-off.

“Predictability is the trampoline beneath a child’s leap into new spaces.”— Issy

If tears flow, resist the urge for a second hug; a firm, loving exit tells your child they’ve got this.

3 | Send a comfort capsule

Pack a small object infused with home—Mum’s hair scrunchie, a laminated family photo or a zip-lock bag with Dad’s aftershave on a tissue. Educators can offer it when your child needs a sensory anchor.

Grab our free printable checklistDownload the “Comfort Capsule Planner” (PDF, 1 page) to tick off up to five safe items and note allergies or care instructions.

4 | Talk about Everwood, not child-care in general

Children think in pictures. Swap abstract reassurances (“You’ll love child-care”) for concrete previews:

• “Miss Beth will have banana bread for morning tea.”

• “You can water the veggie patch with the green elephant watering can.”

Add photos from our website or StoryPark feed to make the story even realer.

5 | Sync sleep and snack times

The closer our routine mirrors home, the easier your child slips into the day. Two weeks before start:

1. Shift naps to match our room schedule (we’ll send you exact times).

2. Offer lunch at roughly 11:30 am and a fruit snack at 2 pm.

Small adjustments now prevent overtired tears later.

Frequently asked parent questions

Question	Quick answer
“How long will crying last?”	Most tears stop within 3 minutes of parents leaving; by day 3 they often disappear altogether.
“Should we sneak out?”	No. A clear, loving goodbye builds trust.
“What if my child refuses breakfast?”	Our chef keeps warm porridge until 8 am—just let Reception know you’ll need it.

Final takeaway

A smooth transition is a team sport. Practise mini goodbyes, craft a farewell ritual, send a comfort capsule, paint vivid Everwood pictures at home and align your routine with ours. Within days your child will stride through the gate—no tears, just eager curiosity.