Starting kindergarten: how to make the first two weeks easier
Tears and nerves in the first days are natural. These simple steps can help both children and parents.
Starting kindergarten is a big change for a child: a new place, new people, new rules. Crying in the first days, not wanting to go in the morning or being more irritable at home are common reactions. Often they ease gradually over a few weeks.
Before you start
- Visit the kindergarten together a few times and meet the teacher.
- Read books about kindergarten at home and play “kindergarten”.
- Move sleep and meal times closer to the kindergarten’s routine.
The first week
If possible, leave your child for 1–2 hours on the first days and build up gradually. Many kindergartens let a parent stay in the group briefly on day one – ask in advance.
A goodbye ritual
Choose a short ritual that is the same every day: a hug, “see you this evening”, a wave. Sneaking away can weaken your child’s trust. Keep the goodbye short, too – your calm rubs off on your child.
What helps at home?
- In the evening, listen to whatever your child wants to share without firing questions.
- Avoid other big changes (moving house, a new club) during this period if you can.
- Celebrate small wins: “Today you waved to your teacher!”
When to seek advice
If after several weeks your child’s sleep, appetite or mood are still seriously disrupted, talk openly with the teacher and, if needed, consult a paediatrician or child psychologist.
These tips are general information — not developmental norms, a diagnosis or individual medical advice. If you have concerns, consult a paediatrician or child psychologist.
