What can I do to make the first day of kindergarten better for my students

I'm a preschool teacher moving to kindergarten next year. I had a similar program before (2/3 year olds in my class). I've only had a few criers on the first day - after 5-10 minutes, they are okay. One cried for the first week (dropped off, cried, left to go play and was fine til mom came to pick up).<br><br>In kindergarten, I know it's going to be so much worse. I have 27 students and only one aide. My other kindergarten teachers have said they have several criers, sometimes a room full, and it's very hard to manage.<br><br>I'm not sure how to help the students who are going to have a hard time separating, and help the kids who are ready and eager to start kindergarten.<br><br>What have you done in the past to make the first day of kindergarten successful for your students (and yourself)?