Managing Emotional Drop-Offs and Pick-Ups

Saying goodbye at drop-off can bring big feelings for both children and parents. The good news? These emotions are a normal part of healthy development. Recent research from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child reminds us that early childhood development is as much about social-emotional health as it is their physical growth. It’s about how children express and manage emotions, form secure relationships, and explore the world around them (Burghardt, 2025).

At our community of schools, teachers use practices rooted in our exclusive Learn as We Grow curriculum and transition guides to help children feel safe and welcome from the very first moment of the day to the last. This includes creating predictable routines, greeting each child warmly, and building strong connections between home and school. A quick, consistent goodbye ritual (like a special handshake or short phrase) helps your child know what to expect. When paired with calm confidence from parents, these routines make mornings and afternoons a smooth experience for everyone.

Parents can also contribute to this process at home by practicing routines, talking about what to expect, or sending along comfort items like a family photo. Research highlights that children thrive when schools and families work together to create consistent, supportive transitions; these positive partnerships build children’s sense of security and motivation to learn (Harper, 2016).

By staying connected with your child’s teachers and maintaining steady routines, you’re giving your child the tools to say goodbye with courage and hello with joy. Try these things at home:

• Create a short, positive goodbye ritual and use it every day.
• Practice morning routines at home so they feel familiar.
• Talk about school in positive, exciting ways.
• Send along a comfort item (such as a small toy or family photo).
• Keep goodbyes brief, as lingering often makes it harder.
• Ask your child’s teacher for updates so you can celebrate progress together.

We look forward to helping your child grow and learn as we make wonderful memories together during the upcoming school year. Thanks for partnering with us to ensure they’re successful in their journey, both in the classroom and at home.

References

Burghardt, L., 2025. “Children’s Health Month: The Importance of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health.” Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University.

Harper, L. J.,2016. “Supporting Young Children’s Transitions to School: Recommendations for Families.” Early Childhood Education Journal, 44(6), 653-659.

Written by Nelle Brien, M.Ed., Education Team at Learning Care Group - passionate about helping children (and families) grow with confidence every day.