Kindergarten is often a child’s introduction to formal schooling. While many children attend pre-K programs, kindergarten, particularly full-day sessions, will set the course for formal schooling for years to come.

According to USAFacts.com, between 3.5 and 4 million children attend kindergarten each year. Many children can be understandably anxious about what lies ahead. First-day-of-school jitters are common and may lead to fears and tears. There are ways to make the first day of kindergarten less scary for kids. Here are some pointers families can follow.

Gradually introduce separations.

Kindergarten may be the first time children are away from their parents for extended periods. Families can introduce controlled separations that gradually increase in duration. Playdates with friends at friends’ homes can last a few hours, or grandparents can take kids on excursions. It helps to show kids they can thrive without their parents around.

Attend school-sponsored functions.

Many schools offer meet-and-greet opportunities for incoming kindergarteners in a fun setting where newcomers can mingle. This way, some faces will be familiar when school begins.

Create a special send-off goodbye.

Make children look forward to leaving with a handshake, a wave, or another goodbye unique to them. Then this goodbye can be repeated each morning at drop-off.

Touch base with other parents.

Parents can use community social media groups to connect with other families whose children are entering kindergarten. Then, children can make friends before school starts and arrive together.

Wind down summer hours.

Acclimating kids to going to bed and waking up earlier helps mimic a school-year schedule. Begin this transition a few weeks before school starts.

Kindergarten is a chance to learn new things and make friends. Although the change can be nerve-racking, families take various steps to make sure kids are excited about starting kindergarten.