Goodbye at dropoff

They're clinging at the classroom door and you have to leave.

Try saying

“I love you. I'll see you at pickup.” Clinging at the preschool door
“Hard goodbyes mean we love each other.” Clinging at the preschool door

For each age

School (5–12)

“I'll see you at three.”
“Have a good day. I love you.”
“Text me at lunch if you want.”

Older kids hate the lingering goodbye more than the goodbye itself.

Preschool (3–5)

“I love you. I'll see you at pickup.”
“Hard goodbyes mean we love each other.”
“Mrs. Chen will help you find a spot.”

Lingering teaches them goodbye is dangerous. A confident exit teaches them it is survivable.