Helping Your Child Build Confidence for a Joyful Start To The School Year
- Mrs. Bunmi
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 4
As the new school year approaches, excitement and anticipation often come hand-in-hand with a touch of anxiety—not just for children, but for parents too. For many Montessori families, especially those with younger children or first-time students, one of the most common emotional hurdles is separation. The good news? With gentle preparation and support rooted in Montessori principles, children can build the confidence to walk into their classroom feeling secure, capable, and curious.
How You Can Help Ease Separation Anxiety:
1) Start with Small Separations at Home
Montessori philosophy nurtures independence from an early age. One of the best ways to prepare your child is by practicing brief, positive separations:
Let them spend short periods of time with a trusted friend or relative.
Encourage independent play in a safe room while you’re nearby.
Use a timer to signal your return and help build trust.
The more practice children have with separating and reuniting, the more confident they become knowing you always return.
2) Create Predictable Routines
Children thrive on consistency. In the days leading up to school:
Establish a calm, predictable morning routine.
Talk positively about what to expect at school.
Include simple rituals like laying out clothes the night before or packing lunch together.
Routines offer emotional security, and the Montessori environment builds on that foundation by providing structure within freedom.
3) Use Honest, Simple Language
Rather than dismissing their feelings with phrases like “Don’t cry” or “It’ll be fun,” try using clear, respectful language:
“I’ll walk you to the door, and then your teacher will be with you.”
“You might feel a little sad when we say goodbye. That’s okay. I will be back to pick you up after your work and playtime.”
Montessori encourages respecting the child’s feelings—even the uncomfortable ones. Let them know their emotions are valid, and that you trust they are capable of handling them.
4) Let Them Participate in the Process
From choosing a backpack to preparing their snack, involve your child in getting ready for school. This sense of ownership builds enthusiasm and confidence.
Bonus tip: Tuck a small “love note” or drawing into their lunchbox as a quiet reminder of your connection.
4) Partner with Your Montessori Guide
Montessori teachers are skilled at helping children feel safe, seen, and supported. Maintain open communication with your child’s guide. Share what comforts your child and any strategies that work well at home. It’s common for children who cry at drop-off to be calm and engaged within minutes. Trust in the process—and in your child’s growing resilience.
5) Stay Calm and Grounded
Children are remarkably attuned to our emotions. Even if you’re feeling nervous, strive to project calm confidence. A cheerful goodbye, paired with a warm smile and a clear “I’ll see you this afternoon,” can make a world of difference.
Separation anxiety is a normal and temporary phase. In the Montessori classroom, your child is entering an environment designed to support their social, emotional, and academic growth. With time, encouragement, and consistency, your little one will blossom into independence—just as Maria Montessori envisioned.
Here’s to a joyful start to the school year, full of wonder, growth, and connection!
Mrs. Bunmi
Mrs. Bunmi began her Montessori teaching career in Nigeria in 2006. She joined MSF in 2008 and has been a cornerstone of the Montessori School of Franklin for more than 17 years. With an Association Montessori International (AMI) Certification and a BSC in Microbiology, Mrs. Bunmi's expertise is both vast and profound. Her unwavering dedication to the Montessori philosophy is a testament to her belief that "Montessori is not a trend; it is a philosophy and it works. The method is consistent, and the materials are beautiful; the materials are the same in any Montessori classroom around the world." Beyond her professional accolades, including being named The Nashville Scene's best private school teacher as well as Teacher of the Month by WKRN and TN Lottery, Mrs. Bunmi’s life is enriched by her love for cooking and cherishing moments with her husband and two daughters. Her passion for nurturing relationships is as profound as her impact in the classroom, making her a truly exceptional educator.