Preschool Prep: 5 Things to Do Before Fall Enrollment Begins

April 14, 2025

Preschool Prep: 5 Things to Do Before Fall Enrollment Begins

The Preschool Countdown Is On — Are You Ready?

Preschool isn’t just another milestone. It’s a whole new world for your child — and let’s be real, for you too.

From figuring out routines to remembering what paperwork you even need, the transition can feel like a lot. But it doesn’t have to.

If you’re getting your child ready for preschool this fall, this blog is your go-to checklist.

Whether this is your first little one or your fourth, these tips will help you feel prepared, not panicked.

1. Tour Local Preschool Programs Early

Keywords: preschool near me, Orlando childcare, tour a daycare

Before you fall in love with a center’s website or their cute social media posts, go visit in person. A tour tells you so much more than a brochure ever could.

Here’s why touring early matters:

Fall spots fill up fast. If you wait too long, your top choice may be full.
You get to see how teachers interact with kids in real-time
It gives your child a chance to see the space, meet staff, and feel less nervous
You’ll be able to ask questions that matter to your family (like food, naps, discipline)

Looking for a preschool in the Orlando area? Schedule a tour with us today to explore your options and ask all the questions you need — no pressure.

2. Talk to Your Child About What Preschool Is

Keywords: preschool routine, separation anxiety, school readiness

Starting school is a big change — and for some kids, it brings up big feelings. (Totally normal.)

Here’s how to prepare your child emotionally:

Use phrases like, “You’ll get to play, make new friends, and learn fun things”
Watch short videos or read books about going to preschool
Drive or walk by the school a few times before their first day
Let them pick out their backpack or lunchbox — kids love being part of the prep
Pro tip: If your child is feeling clingy, don’t panic. Reassure them that preschool is a safe place and remind them you always come back. That’s the magic phrase.

3. Get Your Enrollment Documents Ready

Keywords: preschool registration, required documents, VPK Florida

Nothing’s worse than realizing you're missing paperwork the day you’re trying to register. Avoid the scramble with this quick checklist:

What most preschools require:

Child’s birth certificate
Parent’s photo ID
Immunization records and physical exam (usually within the last year)
Proof of residency (like a lease, utility bill, or mail)
Completed enrollment forms and signed policy agreements
If applying for VPK or School Readiness, you’ll need approval letters

Need help applying for VPK or SR? Our admin team helps parents every week. Just reach out here and we’ll walk you through the process.

4. Practice Your Preschool Routine Now

Keywords: school routine, back to school, morning drop-off.
Don’t wait until the first day to try a brand-new routine. Start easing into it a few weeks before preschool begins.

Here’s what to practice:

Morning routine: Try waking up earlier, eating breakfast, getting dressed, and heading out the door
Bathroom independence: If your child is potty trained, encourage wiping, flushing, and washing hands on their own
Saying goodbye: Practice short goodbyes when dropping them off at a relative’s or a short activity

It’s not about being perfect — it’s about creating a rhythm that feels safe and familiar by the time school starts.

5. Pick Out Supplies and Label Everything

Keywords: preschool checklist, back-to-school prep, labeling supplies

Each preschool is different, but here are a few common items you’ll likely need:

Preschool Supply Basics:

Backpack (small enough for your child to carry)
Extra change of clothes (accidents happen!)
Water bottle
Nap mat or blanket (if full day)
Diapers/wipes (if not potty trained)
Sunscreen or hat (if outdoor play is frequent)

Don’t forget to label everything — even socks. Trust me, stuff gets lost. A roll of clothing labels and a Sharpie will become your best friend.

Bonus Tips: What to Look for in a Preschool

Still deciding which program is right for you? Here’s a quick checklist of signs that a preschool is a good fit:

Teachers greet your child warmly and engage with the
The classrooms are clean, organized, and filled with hands-on activities
There’s a consistent schedule, but with room for child-led play.
They offer updates, photos, or communication throughout the weeks
Staff are CPR certified and follow clear health/safety policies

And if you’re looking for all that and more? Check out our Fall 2025 programs. We’d love to show you around and answer every question — no matter how small.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This (Even If It Feels Like A Lot)

Preschool is a big step — for both you and your child. And while every parent has that moment of “Am I doing this right?” the answer is: yes.

You’re already doing the hard part by showing up, asking questions, and making sure your child is set up for success.

If you need support, info, or a checklist you can actually print, download our free Preschool Prep Checklist here. It breaks everything down so you can feel organized and ready — without the stress.

Schedule a tour today and we’ll walk you through the process, step-by-step!

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