From Sunshine to School Bells: Supporting Childcare Professionals in the Summer-to-Fall Transition

Teacher getting ready for the new school year.

As summer winds down and the scent of new crayons fills the air, childcare professionals find themselves at a familiar crossroads—saying goodbye to the slower, sun-soaked days of summer and preparing for the energetic buzz of a new school year.

This transition is more than just flipping a calendar page. It’s a time of reflection, preparation, and opportunity. Whether you work in a preschool, daycare, or early learning center, here are some ways to support yourself and your team during this seasonal shift.

1. Celebrate the Summer Wins

Before diving into planning mode, take a moment to look back. What worked well this summer? What did the children enjoy most? What growth did you see in your team—or in yourself?

Acknowledging the progress made over the summer helps build momentum for the year ahead. Consider a quick team meeting, a gratitude board, or even a short slideshow of highlights for your center’s families.

2. Prepare for Emotional Transitions

Children and families may feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as routines change. So might staff. Transitions can be tough—even for seasoned educators. Build in time for gentle goodbyes and patient hellos. For example:

• Set up a “welcome wall” for new students with photos of staff and classroom areas.

• Use storytelling or circle time to talk about change and new beginnings.

• Offer extra reassurance to returning children who may have grown attached to their summer caregivers.

3. Reconnect with Your ‘Why’

The start of the school year is the perfect time to reconnect with your purpose. Why did you get into this field? What impact do you want to have this year?

Creating a vision board, revisiting your center’s mission statement, or journaling about your goals can help bring clarity and motivation as you start fresh.

4. Refresh Your Environment

A new year often means new faces, new themes, and new energy. Take time to prepare your space thoughtfully:

• Rotate toys and learning materials to keep things fresh.

• Add cozy touches that reflect the changing season.

• Ensure your learning areas are developmentally appropriate and inclusive.

Small changes in your environment can have a big impact on mood and engagement—for both kids and caregivers.

5. Support Your Team’s Well-Being

Your staff may be balancing excitement with fatigue, especially if summer has been particularly busy. As a leader or peer, you can:

• Acknowledge the emotional labor of childcare.

• Offer time for rest or a slower ramp-up if possible.

• Provide professional development or team-building activities to spark enthusiasm.

6. Communicate Clearly with Families

Families are also transitioning, and they look to childcare professionals for guidance. Use this time to build trust by communicating:

• What changes they can expect (schedules, teachers, routines)

• How you’ll help their child adjust

• Any supplies or forms they need to complete

Strong partnerships start with clarity and compassion.

7. Embrace the New Year with Flexibility

No matter how well you plan, the first few weeks can be unpredictable. Remember: flexibility is a superpower in early childhood education. Be kind to yourself and others as everyone settles in.

Final Thought

The shift from summer to fall isn’t just logistical—it’s emotional and meaningful. As a childcare professional, you’re not just preparing a room—you’re shaping a space where children will grow, connect, and thrive.

So take a breath, appreciate how far you’ve come, and step forward with confidence. A new chapter is just beginning—and you’re ready for it.