How to Use Greeting Rituals at Drop Off

The transition from home to school, and back home at the end of the day can be challenging for some children. At the beginning of the day, greeting children in the drop off areas and hallways connects them to the school and helps prime them for a day of learning by fostering an optimal internal state before they ever reach their classrooms.

Connection is the key to cooperation. Position staff members at all points of entry and throughout the halls to conduct connecting rituals with children, especially those who seem to be having a difficult time transitioning to or from school. Encourage struggling children to take a deep breath: “You’re safe. You can handle this. Keep breathing.” Offer composed children a high five or pinkie hug (with cheerful eye contact). The I Love You Rituals book contains many brief but powerful connecting rituals that will engage children, prime their brains for learning and ease their transition to/from school. A greeting apron similar to those used in classrooms can also provide a structured way for staff to greet children upon arrival. A downloadable digital template for a greeting apron is included in the Make-N-Takes section of our Premium Resource Toolkit. At dismissal, offer goodbyes with the same encouraging and loving intent as you did upon arrival.