How do I handle the closing of my son's preschool?

My son, who is almost 5, has been attending the same preschool with the same teachers since he was 3 1/2. On Friday, without any notice, the school just closed. Even the teachers seemed to be kept in the dark. The letter parents received sited financial reasons for the closing and apologized for not giving the parents any notice. My concern is how all this will affect my son. He seems to have taken the news o.k. but the reality of the situation really hasn't sunk in yet...that he won't be seeing his teachers and schoolmates again. I'd like to  have some kind of closure for him...allowing him to  say good-bye somehow. I'd also like advice on how to prepare him for another preschool, provided i can find one that has an opening and for the transition into kindergarten next year. my main concern is his disappointment right now and how to ease things. thanks.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

If you are able, arrange a time for him to see his teachers and say good-bye to them, as well as with any of the children with whom he was particularly close. Given the circumstances of the closing, you'll probably have to take the initiative. It would be helpful if some of the parents can get together and plan a little good-bye celebration.

Relative to the next placement, have him visit ahead of time, of course, and only once or twice will be sufficient. Then, he will quickly adapt. Children are very resilient, and I don't think you have to worry about any long-tern adverse consequences.