The first day of preschool or kindergarten is a time of excitement but could also be a day of anxiety – especially for the child. They want to be a “big boy” or “big girl” as they enter their new school, but they may not act like it. Here are some ways you can help your child be ready for their first day of school.
You can begin to read books on starting 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 new 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. Help them learn to pick out their clothes the night before as part of their routine.
If your child’s school has an open house before the school year starts, you might want to take advantage of it to familiarize your child with it. 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 they may have.
Perhaps you’ll meet other children who are visiting the classroom on the same day. 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 your child’s feelings and encourage them to talk about them. 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, 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, dressed, have a special breakfast on a china service, and take pictures to help you both remember. Leave for school early enough 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.