For many parents, a child’s first day at school is an emotional milestone – filled with both excitement and anxiety. For young children aged 18 months to 3 years, leaving the comfort of their parents to enter a new environment can often bring tears, clinginess, and worry. So, how can we help children walk into class with confidence and joy from the very beginning?
The answer lies in gentle, thoughtful preparation and nurturing a preschool environment that fosters life skills in a positive and encouraging way.
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What Affects a Child’s Emotions on Their First Day of Preschool?
Between the ages of 1.5 to 3, children are still deeply attached to their parents and caregivers. It’s common for children to show strong emotional reactions when first attending school, such as:
- Prolonged crying when separated from parents
- Refusing to enter the classroom and clinging to familiar adults
- Withdrawing or avoiding interaction with teachers and peers
- Refusing to eat or sleep at school
These behaviors are completely normal – they reflect a natural fear of change. Instead of forcing children to adapt quickly, parents should focus on gradually helping their child develop foundational life skills – learning to adjust, manage emotions, and confidently embrace new experiences.
How TAS Supports a Smooth Transition for Young Children
At The American School (TAS), the Early Years admission process begins with a special settling-in week. During this week, children are not expected to stay the entire day. Instead, they are gradually introduced to the classroom environment in a way that matches their individual pace and comfort level.
TAS teachers are more than just educators – they serve as emotional companions who listen, soothe, and bond with each child through gentle activities such as sand play, storytelling, and creative movement. Every moment is carefully designed to foster life skills in a natural, pressure-freeway.
The classrooms at TAS are decorated in soothing colors, with a welcoming atmosphere that feels like a “second home.” All teachers and bilingual assistants are trained in early childhood psychology, ensuring that children can overcome the “first day fears” in a calm and supported environment.
Meet Our Preschool Teachers and Book Your First Trial Experience
TAS believes there’s nothing more powerful than real experience. Parents are welcome to join their child in a sample class – where children can explore, play, and make new friends in a safe, caring setting. It’s the perfect first step into a new learning journey, with full support from both school and family.
The first day of school is a big leap for any young child – but with early preparation and a nurturing environment, it becomes a joyful and empowering experience. Let’s build a strong foundation of confidence and essential life skills from the very beginning, so your child can step into school with happiness and courage.
📍 Address: 6 Song Hanh, Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway, An Phu Ward, Thu Duc City, HCMC
📞 Hotline: 0909 046 223
🌐 Website: https://www.tas.edu.vn
📘 Fanpage: The American School TAS
📧 Email: admissions@mytas.edu.vn
📝 Register for a free trial class here: https://tas.edu.vn/vi/admissions-page/enrollment-form