The Great Escape:
Surviving Preschool Separation at ICCC
Starting pre-school is a big moment in a young child’s life. It is the beginning of a whole new adventure, but we have to be prepared that it usually starts with tears.
At the International Children’s Creativity Center (ICCC), we take separation seriously and want to help both kids and parents go through this as quickly and easily as possible.
Let’s face it, everyone’s approach to separation is different. Some kids wave goodbye with barely a glance back, while others hold on to mom’s leg and refuse to let go.
And that’s perfectly okay. We’re here to help, and we have some tricks up our sleeves to make the morning separation a little less dramatic.
Step 1: The Shoe Moment
Every morning, the parents help kids take off their shoes and slip into those comfy slippers. It’s a moment for a bit of chit-chat and giggles, or it’s the moment to acknowledge that your child is feeling sad or scared about being left at school, and tell them you felt the same way when you were a child. Of course they will have lots of good time playing and having fun, and after nap time you will come pick them up.
Step 2: “I’m Here and Ready to Rock!”
Once the goodbyes are said, with or without tears, your kid will be with their teacher who’s so happy to see them and set them on a mission – find their lovely face on their name badge (a special VIP magnet badge) and stick it on the board. This simple act says, “I’m here, I’m fabulous, and I’m ready to conquer the world (or at least this cozy, colorful corner of it).”
Step 3: The Artistic Prelude
What better way to kickstart a day than with a table full of natural treasures, objects and art materials? Every morning, our teachers conjure up a different table-invitation inspired by the day’s theme. It’s like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, but with crayons, glue sticks and other curious objects. Leaves, acorns, pine cones, and beautiful rocks, oh my! Our little artists can get to work!
Step 4: Groovy Mornings with Music
Who said mornings couldn’t be fun? At ICCC, we’re big fans of the “start your day with a dance” philosophy. At least three times a week we welcome the kids with some toe-tapping tunes that guarantee a foot-tapping, head-nodding good mood.
Step 5: The Family That Learns Together, Stays Together
We’re all about family. That’s why we keep parents informed and involved. We send pictures and videos how kids play and learn, and sometimes we invite them to join in on the fun. We make it feel like a big family, and this is our secret at the International Children’s Creativity Center.
We know goodbyes can be tough at the beginning but with a little routine, creativity, dancing and lots of play and love, we make sure everyone leaves with a smile on their face – kids and parents alike.