Let me share my transitional story. We knew our office building would be closing, due to construction, and that everyone housed there would be moving. We moved during the week of May 19. As I sat in my new space, surrounded by boxes and empty file cabinets, I thought about how to make my space comfortable for myself and others. Moreover, I was amazed at the new sounds in my space. The old space at 49 Osborne Street was heralded by frequent ambulances and fire trucks, cars coming to a screeching halt at the light, and the smells of the local bodega down the street. My new office, though still in the city, has virtually none of those sounds or smells. Rather, I hear birds, the occasional beeping of a garbage truck, and the sound of children’s voices and play. I find the children’s voices to be calming but I miss the other activities.

I related my thoughts and emotions to what a child might soon be experiencing as they transition to a new school. Some students will be leaving their friends at a child care center, while others will be separating from mom and dad. Incoming school children will experience larger classrooms, new teachers and friends, and changing routines and habits. As an adult reflecting on my own changes, I was prompted to pause and think about how do we make the transition to school easier for children? What support is needed and how can we best facilitate a positive experience?

Human beings are creatures of habit. A change in our habits can cause multiple responses. Some children experience anxiety, show signs of resistance, and may enter into a full melt-down. We often experience these reactions when we ask children to shut off a video game or leave an activity in which they are fully engaged. Children, like adults, need preparation for transitions.

Start by talking about going to school early. Have your child be part of the registration process. Visit the school, play at the playground, and take part in preopening activities that schools offer. Some schools offer family visits and telephone calls or video chats between families and teachers.

There’s a plethora of books about going to school. The Danbury Library or online books are good places to start. Pick out a new outfit to wear the first day of school. Some children are comforted by bringing a small item from home such as a picture or small stuffed animal. The item should fit in your child’s bookbag or lunch sack. A surprise smiley note in their lunchbox is a great way for your child to know you are thinking about them. Since we aren’t totally sure about the protocols that will be in place when school opens in September, it is recommended to help your child to learn to wear a mask and how to take it off and on, if they haven’t had to do that yet.

Your child will likely share that they will miss you. Reassure them that you will miss them too, but you will be back together at the end of the day or you will meet them as they get off the bus. As I said earlier, transitions can be tough but a bit of TLC to learn the new ropes and lots of hugs and reassurance will help your child have a successful transition to school.

Anne E. Mead, Ed. D., is the administrator for the Early Childhood Education and Extended Learning Programs of the Danbury Public Schools. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact her at 203-830-6508 or meadan@danbury.k12. ct.us.