Home icon

Keeping Healthy and Safe: Arriving at School or Childcare

Young children are learning new procedures for arriving at school or childcare. Adults can support them with simple explanations, visual supports, and practice.

  • Provide a Simple Explanation
    Use simple phrases, such as “When you arrive at school, your parent will say goodbye at an outside door instead of at your classroom.  When you arrive, someone will take your temperature.”
  • Use Visual Supports
    Post pictures of parents and children saying goodbye outside.
  • Set Them Up for Success
    Provide pictures of children getting their temperature taken.
  • Provide Practice and Encouragement
    Help children and parents develop a drop-off routine, such as a special handshake or hug at the door. Encourage children to describe their routine to their classmates.
  • The opinions, resources, and referrals provided on the IEL Web site are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to take the place of medical or legal advice, or of other appropriate services. We encourage you to seek direct local assistance from a qualified professional if necessary before taking action.

Reviewed: 2020