Starting school is a big change—for both children and parents! 

The transition to preschool or kindergarten is an exciting time that comes with a new set of challenges for kids and parents. 

New routines, unfamiliar environments, and separation from caregivers can feel overwhelming.  

The good news? With the right support, your child can develop the confidence and resilience to thrive in their new school environment. Researchers at the University of Melbourne found that children cope with separation anxiety more confidently when they’re supported with consistent routines, reassurance, and gradual practice separations.¹ 

Build Early Literacy Through Meaningful Reading Experiences

At Taipei American School (TAS), we specialize in making transitions smooth and positive for young learners. Whether your child is starting school for the first time or adjusting to a new routine, these strategies will help them feel prepared and supported every step of the way. 

1. Establish Predictable Routines

Children feel more secure when they know what to expect. Creating structured daily routines at home helps ease their transition into school life. Studies like the one at the University of Virginia found that children with consistent morning and evening routines tend to adjust more smoothly to kindergarten, both socially and emotionally, since they’re already used to a comforting structure.² 

How We Recommend Building Consistency 

• Have a Morning Routine – Wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, and pack their school bag in the same order each day. 
• Have an Evening Routine – Settle into a regular bedtime with personal grooming and a calming activity like reading or storytelling. 
• Try Separation Practice – Practice short periods of separation (e.g., playdates or time at a grandparents’ house) to build independence. 

Ready to Start a Routine? 

How to Prepare Your Child for the Transition: 

• Read books about starting school and talk about what happens in the classroom. 
• Use phrases like “You’re going to meet new friends, and play fun games, and learn!” to create excitement."
• Validate their emotions: “It’s okay to feel a little nervous. Let’s talk about what might help.” 

Thinking about TAS for your child? Join an Open House to experience our nurturing environment firsthand! 

2. Talk About What to Expect 

Children feel more comfortable when they understand what’s coming next. Talking about school in positive, simple terms helps build excitement and reduce anxiety. A study from the University of Melbourne emphasizes the importance of predictability during transitions, noting: “Children benefit from knowing what to expect. Consistent and clear communication about routines and upcoming events reduces uncertainty and supports emotional adjustment.” Providing a simple, reassuring narrative about the first day can help children feel secure and confident.¹ For example, read books about starting school and use phrases like ‘You’re going to meet new friends, play fun games, and learn!  

 

Children benefit from knowing what to expect. Consistent and clear communication about routines and upcoming events reduces uncertainty and supports emotional adjustment.

University of Melbourne StudY

How to Prepare Your Child for the Transition: 

• Read books about starting school and talk about what happens in the classroom. 
• Use phrases like “You’re going to meet new friends, play fun games, and learn!” to create excitement. 
• Validate their emotions: “It’s okay to feel a little nervous. Let’s talk about what might help.
• Thinking about TAS for your child? Join an Open House to experience our nurturing environment firsthand! 

3. Visit the School Before the First Day

Familiarizing your child with their new school environment before their first day can make a big difference. 

How TAS Supports Smooth Transitions: 

• New Family Orientation Days – Explore classrooms, meet teachers, and engage in hands-on activities.  
• Mid-Year Admissions Support – Families joining mid-year can schedule a personalized tour for their child.  
• Teacher Meet-and-Greets – Helping children build early connections with their new teachers and fellow new classmates on Orientation Days. 

Build Early Literacy Through Meaningful Reading Experiences

Reading together is one of the most powerful ways to support language development and early literacy—even before your child can recognize letters. Shared reading promotes vocabulary growth, comprehension, and a lifelong love of books. Research from the University of Western Australia confirms that shared book-reading in early childhood leads to larger vocabularies and better comprehension, so those story times truly pay off.²  

4. Encourage Independence Through Small Daily Tasks

Building confidence starts with small, everyday skills. Encouraging independence at home can make the transition to school smoother. For instance, UNICEF advises that practicing short separations and encouraging self-care skills—like getting dressed or putting on shoes—can help children build the confidence and independence they need to adjust smoothly to school.³ 

Key School Readiness Skills: 

• Carrying Their Backpack – Let your child practice putting it on and taking items out. 
• Using the Bathroom Independently – Encourage proper handwashing and bathroom routines. 
• Opening Lunchboxes – Help them practice eating independently at home. 

DOWNLOAD Our Free Visual Schedule Kit

5. Create Goodbye Rituals

A simple, predictable goodbye routine makes drop-offs easier and helps children transition into their day with confidence. 

Try This: 

• Create a fun handshake or special hug and wave routine. 
• Keep goodbyes short and reassure your child you’ll see them soon. 
• Avoid sneaking away from the drop off point—this can create anxiety instead of reducing it.  

How TAS Makes Transitions Easier for Families 

At TAS, we believe a strong start leads to a successful school experience. Our Early Childhood onboarding is designed to help students feel secure, engaged, and excited from day one. 

TAS Transition Support Includes: 

• Orientation Days – Helping children gradually adjust to their new school. 
• Caring Teachers & Structured Routines – Providing a balance of comfort and consistency. 
• Community Support for Parents – Playdates, class chats, and parent resources to help families feel connected. 

Ready to Learn More? Join Us at an Open House!

From resilience to curiosity, discover how intentional learning environments set children up for academic achievement and life success.

Choosing the right school for your child is an important decision, and we’re here to help. Experience the TAS Early Childhood program in action by attending an upcoming Open House!  

Read more about how to nurture the skills to help your preschooler be successful.

Building Confident Mathematicians: How TAS Develops Flexible Thinkers in Early Childhood

 

Is TAS the Right Choice for Your Child’s Early Education?

 

 

1. Alsaadi, S., et al. (2023). Separation anxiety among kindergarten children and its association with parental socialization. F1000Research, 11, 1321 
2. Rimm-Kaufman, S. E., & Pianta, R. C. (2000). An ecological perspective on the transition to kindergarten. Journal of Applied Dev. Psychology, 21(2), 147–166. 
3. UNICEF Parenting (2020). How to help your child manage separation anxiety. UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) – Parenting Guidance.