Ten Tips for a Happy First Day of School

The following items are tips for preparing for a smooth first day of school. 

*When talking with your child about the school year focus on the positive things that will be happening such as seeing old friends and making new ones, having fun and learning new things.  

*Reading stories to children that deal with first day of school jitters and then discussing the characters, how they felt and how they are feeling would also help ease their mind.  Some options are The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn, Franklin Goes to School by Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark, I Don’t Want to go Back to School by Marisbina Russo, First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg, I am Absolutely too Small for School by Lauren Child, First Day of School by Mercer Mayer, Splat the Cat Back to School, Splat by Rob Scotton.

*Visit the school playground and spend some time on it before the busyness of the school year begins.

*Make and practice your new school routine prior to the first day to help your child get better acquainted with the morning schedule.  This could include getting up at your regular school time, having breakfast, getting dressed and ready for the day, the walk to the bus stop etc.  A daily routine will help your child on the 1^st day of school and every day after. 

*In order to diminish the hecticness of the morning get clothing, lunches/snacks, and backpacks ready the night before school.  Designate a spot in your home to keep all school items.

*If possible, have a play date with a classmate prior to the start of school so that your child has a familiar face to look for in the classroom.

*Let your child know how much fun school is, children pick up on our unspoken signals.  Make sure you’re sending positive messages.

*Before bed or before you leave the house check to make sure your child has everything they need for the day – snack, homework, notes for school, proper outwear (depending on the season).

*Keep a calendar where events are written down to help your child and your family with scheduling and organization.

*If your child continues to be anxious about being away from you - here are some ideas to help the morning separation go easier; teach them deep breathing exercise to calm down, play relaxing music, don’t let them see that you are upset/worried/scared about their day ahead as they will immediately pick up on those emotions, give them a small transitional object to keep in their backpack such as a worry stone, bracelet, picture etc.  Help your child learn and understand that separations are a reality, they can be fun, they are temporary, and the reunion with their family is something to look forward to.