First Day

Signing In

Daily sign in is required, which is electronic now and can be completed on the iPad located in the foyer. You will need to sign this every day. Remember to sign for absences.

Bags

Children place their own bag in their locker. Please help them to find their locker.

Medication

Medication must not be left in the child’s bag. All medication should be handed to a staff member personally by the parent. Any instructions should be clearly written in the administration of medication form that a staff member will give to you.

Departure

Please feel free to spend time with your child and encourage them to be at ease in what will be a strange environment to them at first. When it is time for you to leave, explain to the child that you are leaving. Tell them to have a happy day, that you love them and that you will see them after afternoon tea. Always tell staff when you are leaving so we can help with any departure difficulties. If you are unsure, please ask – we are here to help make YOUR first day a trauma free experience too!

Our staff understands that it is difficult for parents to leave their child for the first time and encourage parents to call throughout the day to check on their child’s progress.

Our team of Early Childhood educators also suggest that you always let them know when you are leaving. This will let the staff give a little extra support to your child should they need it. Also try not to prolong the farewell, always say “Goodbye” or “I’m going now. I’ll be back this afternoon”. Giving your child a kiss and hug before you leave can also help with separation anxiety.

Ensure a smooth transition for your child’s first school day with our childhood education & children daycare at Tahmoor. Ready, set, succeed! Our School Readiness Program in Sydney focuses on early childhood education essentials, nurturing confidence and skills to help your child embrace school with excitement and joy.

Feel free to ring as often as you like to check your child’s progress. First days are sometimes more difficult for the parents than the children.

Pack the essentials your child will need for the day, including:

A small backpack.
A change of clothes (in case of spills or accidents).
A water bottle.
A nutritious snack or lunch (if required by the preschool).
Comfort items like a favorite stuffed toy or blanket (if allowed) to help ease separation anxiety.
Label all items with your child’s name to avoid mix-ups.

Talk positively about preschool in the days leading up to the first day. Mention the fun activities they’ll do, like storytime, painting, or playing with new friends. On the first day, stay calm and reassuring. A quick goodbye ritual can help ease the transition, such as a hug or a special handshake. Trust the teachers to take it from there—most kids adjust within minutes of engaging with the group.

Preschools typically plan simple, engaging activities for the first day, such as:

Icebreaker games to help kids get to know each other.
Creative activities like drawing, coloring, or crafting.
Circle time for singing songs or reading stories.
Free play to explore toys and make friends.
These activities are designed to make your child feel comfortable and excited to return.

It’s completely normal for children to cry during drop-off. To handle this:

Stay calm and reassuring, letting them know you’ll be back soon.
Avoid lingering, as it might make separation harder.
Trust the teachers, who are experienced in comforting upset children.
Many preschools send updates or photos during the day to reassure parents. Most children stop crying once they engage in activities.

Start practicing routines a week or two before the first day. For example:

Establish a bedtime and wake-up schedule.
Practice putting on their backpack and shoes independently.
Role-play activities like snack time or storytime.
This preparation helps your child feel more confident and familiar with their new routine.

First Day

Signing In

Bags

Medication

Departure

News & Events

Contacts