Goodbyes Are Never Easy – Thank You for Growing With Us at Panda Cub House Childcare Centre

We’re sad to see you go, but we understand that every family’s journey is unique—and we sincerely wish you all the best in your next chapter.

As part of our transition process, we kindly ask you to complete this 1-Month Notice of Withdrawal Form to help us plan accordingly and ensure a smooth, supportive experience for your child in their final weeks with us.

Thank you for being part of the Panda Cub House family. It’s been a joy to care for your little one, and we’re grateful for the time we’ve shared together.

With warm wishes,
The Panda Cub House Team

✅ For Families (Before the Last Day)

⬜ Submit 30-Day Withdrawal Notice
Provide your written notice to the Director to begin the transition process.

⬜ Complete Transition Meeting (Optional)
Schedule a brief check-in with your child’s educator or the Director to discuss how to support your child’s emotional needs during the transition.

⬜ Talk About the Change at Home
Use age-appropriate language to help your child understand they’ll be saying goodbye to Panda Cub House. Be calm, honest, and reassuring.

⬜ Bring a Memory Book or Poster (Optional)
Families may create a memory board, photo collage, or short letter that can be shared during circle time on their child’s last day.

⬜ Return Any Borrowed Items
Check for Panda Cub House library books, extra clothing, or other items that belong to the centre.

⬜ Collect All Personal Belongings
Take home indoor shoes, spare clothes, water bottles, comfort items, etc.

✅ For Educators & Panda Cub Team

⬜ Inform the Class and Plan a Gentle Goodbye
Prepare the group by sharing that a friend will be leaving. Use books or social stories to support understanding.

⬜ Create a “We’ll Miss You” Card or Book
Classmates and teachers may contribute drawings, kind messages, or pictures to a simple card or booklet for the child to take home.

⬜ Celebrate the Child’s Last Day
A small circle-time goodbye (song, story, or treat) may be held on the child’s final day to honour their time with us.

⬜ Provide Developmental Documentation
Prepare a summary of the child’s learning story, key milestones, and Flight documentation portfolio (if applicable) to give to the family.

⬜ Debrief with the Team
Hold a short team reflection on the child’s transition to discuss emotional impacts on peers and staff.

📚 Recommended Children’s Books About Transitions and Goodbyes

1. Goodbye House, Hello House by Margaret Wild
   A gentle story about a child moving from one house to another—acknowledging both the sadness of leaving and the excitement of new beginnings.
2. The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr
   This book uses simple language and bright illustrations to help children process feelings of loss or separation, while reassuring them that it’s okay to feel sad and okay to move forward.
3. When I Miss You by Cornelia Maude Spelman
   A comforting read for children who feel separation anxiety or are leaving familiar routines. It provides language for talking about missing someone and strategies for coping.
4. My Big Goodbye by Jenette Moser
   Written specifically for children leaving daycare, this book supports them in saying goodbye to familiar people, routines, and places while validating their mixed emotions.
5. A Kiss Goodbye by Audrey Penn
   From the author of The Kissing Hand, this book follows Chester the raccoon as he moves to a new tree. A wonderful story to help ease fears around changes.
6. Moving Molly by Shirley Hughes
   A classic story about a young girl adjusting to a new home. It highlights the emotional journey while celebrating resilience and curiosity.
7. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
   A powerful story about staying connected to loved ones, even when they’re far away. Ideal for children transitioning away from familiar people or spaces.
8. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
   While not solely about transitions, this uplifting book celebrates inclusivity and starting new in unfamiliar environments like school or daycare.
9. Lena’s Shoes Are Nervous: A First-Day-of-School Dilemma by Keith Calabrese
   Perfect for first days or new beginnings, this story shows how nervousness is normal and can be overcome.
10. Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings by Ellen McVicker
    Geared for slightly older preschoolers, this book talks about goodbyes related to life changes in a hopeful, sensitive, and empowering way.

WE THANK YOU

As your family prepares to move on from Panda Cub House, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for allowing us to be part of your child’s early learning journey. It has truly been an honour and a joy to care for and grow alongside your little one.

We are so thankful for the trust you placed in us—entrusting us with your child’s care, development, and happiness. Whether it was through daily drop-offs, classroom adventures, or milestone celebrations, your family became an important part of our Panda Cub House community.

While goodbyes are never easy, we know that your child will carry with them the memories, friendships, and skills they’ve gained here. We are so proud of how much they’ve grown, and we’ll continue cheering them on from afar.

Please know that you’ll always have a special place in our hearts, and we sincerely wish your family all the best in your next chapter.

With warmest wishes and heartfelt thanks,
The Panda Cub House Team