Creating a "Tear Free" Drop Off Routine

​Establishing a drop off routine for your little one is essential to creating tear free drop off's at school, with the babysitter. or the in-laws! Routines help reinforce your little ones innate love of order by creating consistency, safety, and security during your established drop off routine.

How Can Parents Create a Drop Off Routine?

• Consistency is key!
  
  • Creating a drop off routine that is the same each time helps your child know what to expect and builds a sense of trust. 
• Prepare the child.
  • ​Phrases like "Today is a school day, we are going to get dressed, pack our lunch and get in the car so we can drive to school" or "First we are going to get in the car, then we are going to school" help your child know what is happening next in their daily schedule and establish a routine. It is important to prompt your child as many times as needed to prepare them for the transition.
    
• Arrive on time.
  
  • ​Arriving on time and at the same time every day aids in preparing your child and remaining consistent in their routine. Phrases like "It's 8:15, it is time to go to school. Your friends and teachers are playing outside and are so excited for you to join them!", are great to utilize in your drop off routine.
    
• Keep it short and sweet!
  • ​Once arriving at school, it is important to keep drop off's short, sweet, and positive! Some ideas for this are:
    
  • "I love you so much and I know you are going to have a great day!" and providing your little one a high five or hug.
    
  • Giving your little one a kiss on the hand that they can take with them to school or creating your own special handshake!
• Arriving on time for pick-up.
  
  • ​Arriving on time for pick up helps your child progress through their day even when they are sad that you aren't there with them. Here at Amici we remind students "I see that you are feeling sad today after drop off, Mom and Dad miss you too, they will be back to pick you up after lunch. First we are going to complete our work cycle, have lunch, and then it will be time to go home." 
    
  • These phrases can also be added to your drop off routine to remind your little one that you will be back to get them and what time of day they can expect you back.
    
• Reach out for help!
  
  • ​We are here to help you and your little one have a smooth transition to and from school. We understand how difficult it can be to watch your little one cry at departure. We want to make it a positive experience for both parents and their children. Ask for help, call to check in and see if your little one has adjusted to school since you left, and most importantly, understand that all children will go through seasons of missing you a little bit extra while they depart to school.