Getting ready for the first day of school Do you remember your first day of school ? Were you excited ? Frightened ? Sad ? Your childhood memories about the first day of school will influence how you feel about your child starting school . You may have mixed feelings about the start of school – excitement for your child on the one hand , but a sense of loss on the other . You may be worried about how your child will cope with new routines and strangers . Your attitude toward the start of school can help set a positive tone . If you are worried or anxious , try not to pass those feelings along .
Your child may also have some mixed feelings – worry about not knowing the teacher or the other children in class , but also excitement about a new adventure . If your child feels prepared and knows what to expect , he or she will more likely be ready for independence and to view the start of school as a positive experience .
Here are some tips for the last few weeks leading up to the start of school :
• Talk about the first day and what your child may experience . Focus on the positives of going to school .
• Practice walking to school or to the bus stop often so it begins to feel like a familiar routine . If your child will be riding the bus , review safety rules .
• Practice going to bed and getting up on the new schedule that will be required for school . Children ages five to six need at least 10 hours of sleep per night .
• Get up early enough so your child can eat a calm , unhurried breakfast .
• Gather comfortable clothing . School clothes should be suited for the day ’ s weather and be comfortable and durable for physical activities . They should also be washable , as kindergarten exploration can often be a bit messy . Look for clothing , jackets , shoes and boots that are easy for your child to put on , take off , and fasten as independently as possible .
On the first day of kindergarten :
• Serve your child ’ s usual breakfast , or better yet let them have breakfast at school , it ’ s free for all kindergartners !
• A healthy breakfast will help your child to be more attentive and “ ready to learn .”
• Help your child to dress in comfortable clothing that they are accustomed to wearing .
• Keep conversations and routines as normal as possible .
• Remind your child how he or she will get home from school .
• Assure your child that you are excited for him or her to go to kindergarten and that you look forward to greeting them and hearing all about the school day .
• When you say goodbye on the first day , make it quick and reassuring , with a warm hug .
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