It will be authored by YOU, so send your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions a.s.a.p. I hope that you find it to be a helpful addition to your classroom. The children cry. The parents cry. First impressions are never more important than that first day.
Place puzzles on the tables or desks.
Enlist the help of a mother several days in advance to be there for the first hour of the day. She can corral the calm group while you cajole the heart-broken and hysterical. Have tissues on hand. Encourage the parent to leave quickly. Encourage the child to be your helper.