We’re excited you’ve chosen to enroll your child sat Stepping Stone School.  We understand how changing routines, new encounters, and meeting new people can be challenging for both parent and child, and we want to make the experience as comfortable as possible for you and your family.

To that end, we’ve compiled a list of suggestions to help you and your family feel prepared for this important and exciting transition.

What can I do to help my child get excited about his/her new school?

• Talk positively with children about going to preschool. Discuss what it means, what to expect, and what he or she will be doing. Talk about the school’s features, activities, teachers and how much fun your child will have with his or her new friends.
• Be prepared to answer questions, although don’t be surprised if your child asks about seemingly minor or even nonsensical details especially if this is the first time he or she is will be spending time away from you.
• Bring your child in for a visit so he or she can see the classroom and meet the teacher. Consider arranging for your child to visit for a few hours to get a feel for the program.  If a visit is not possible, share photos of the school from our website at steppingstoneschool.com  
• For infants who breastfeed, make sure he or she is comfortable taking a bottle. A good time to begin introducing a bottle is around 3-4 weeks of age after breastfeeding is well established.

What do I need to bring to Stepping Stone School with my child?

All children – All items from home should be clearly labeled with your child’s first and last name.

• Extra clothes, including socks. If your child is potty training, you may want to keep more than one set of clothes in his or her cubby.
• A photo of your family for your child’s crib or classroom family board
• Up-to-date immunization record & doctor’s statement of health
• Sunscreen
• Warm clothes for outdoor play, if needed
• Any medication your child needs to receive during the day. (Ask your campus principal about our policies on medication.)

Optional – favorite stuffed animal or other security items

Infants – Stepping Stone School provides crib sheets (laundered daily), diaper wipes, snacks and nutritious hot lunches for infants who are eating table foods.

• Diapers (cloth or disposable)
• Diaper ointment
• Baby food, if applicable
• Breast milk or formula in already-prepared bottles
• Optional – pacifiers, frozen breast milk or shelf-stable, prepared formula for back-up.

Toddlers and Preschoolers – Stepping Stone School provides a nutritious hot lunch and snacks each day your child is in our care.

• Diapers or training pants, if needed
• Blanket & crib sheet for nap time
• Optional – small pillow for nap time

Here are a few tips to set the tone for your child’s successful and enjoyable day during morning drop-offs:

• Establish a routine. Experts say that a hug and kiss, followed by a smiling goodbye and leaving is a positive way to reassure your child.
• Avoid the urge to linger or return. Your actions can convey anxiety to your child, making him or her more uncomfortable with you leaving. Our teachers are trained to engage children helping them ease into their new routines.
• Feel free to call or stop by to check on your child during the day. We have an open-door policy. Your child’s care and your peace of mind are our priority.  We are here to help!
• Read more about this transition process: Starting at Stepping Stone School.

This is an exciting time in your child’s development and being prepared can go a long way toward making your child (and you) relaxed and comfortable with this new routine. if you have specific questions, speak to your campus principal but rest assured that your child will adapt, thrive and become prepared for elementary school in Stepping Stone School’s nurturing and educational care.