The first day of preschool or kindergarten is a time of excitement but could also be a day of anxiety – especially for the children. They want to be a “big boy” or “big girl” as they enter their new school, but they may be nervous. Here are some ways you can help your child be ready for their first day of school.
To begin preparing them, read books about going school the summer before they are due to start. Find books that portray school as being a place to make new friends and have fun learning. If you can find a book that includes a favorite television character, it may make the transition to school a little easier.
Begin a school routine for your child that they will follow when they start school. Having a routine will allow your child to know what to expect each night and what time to get up in the morning. Show them how to pick out their clothes the night before, as part of their routine.
If your children’s school has an open house before the school year starts, you might want to take advantage of it to familiarize your child with the buildings and rooms. You can show them where the library, restrooms, cafeteria, and school office are. As the school year nears, you may be able to visit the classroom and meet their teacher. This will go a long way toward easing any fears the children may have.
When you visit the classroom, you may meet other children. Talk with the adults who brought them to school, exchange telephone numbers, and try to plan an opportunity for the children to get together before school starts. Knowing children in their class might make the first day of school less traumatic.
Acknowledge and encourage your children to talk about their feelings. Try not to make them feel like a baby because they may be scared or nervous. These feelings are normal when anyone is entering a new situation and much more so when the person is young.
Help your child get plenty of rest. Plan on their getting ready with a bath, story time, and sleep early enough to be rested in the morning. You might also want to have your child’s clothing already picked out and ready for them to get dressed in the morning.
Make the first day of school something to celebrate. Get them up and dressed, have a special breakfast , and take pictures to help you both remember. Leave for school early so that you won’t be rushed and will be able to walk your child to their classroom.
The first day or preschool or kindergarten can elicit some unusual feelings. Your child may be looking forward starting school and yet they might also be scared. By using some of these ideas, you can help your child have a first great day of school.
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