3-min read
It’s back-to-school season, and many families are heading into the first first day of school! While both parents and children might feel nervous, following the tips below can help you and your child feel better prepared for this new and exciting time.
1. Don’t talk to your child too early about going to school
Young children live in the now. It’s hard for them to wait for something that’s happening in four days, next week, or next month. If you tell them they're starting school soon, they might wake up the next morning thinking it’s the big day! Though you may feel excited about this new adventure, tamp down on talking with your child about starting school until no more than a few days before school starts.
2. Be positive
While you're excited for your child to start school, you might simultaneously feel hesitation, nervousness, and even sadness at your child moving into the next “big kid” stage of life. Be aware of how your emotions show on your face and in your mood. Your child is always tuning into and absorbing your emotions, so communicate excitement and a positive attitude about starting school.
3. Be mindful of other big transitions
Young children have to process and adjust to a lot of new information when they begin school. When your child is starting school for the first time, it's best to wait on other big life changes, such as changing nannies, taking a big trip, toilet training, moving, or transitioning to a “big kid bed.” If possible, try to postpone other life changes until after settling into the rhythm of the school year.
4. Pack smart
Don’t find yourself stuck in transit with a leaky pull up, sticky fingers, or a bored little one. Pack all the necessities, including extra diapers or pull ups, wipes, and a book or two to keep your child entertained. You might even throw in a small notebook and a few crayons and extra clothes.
5. Be on time
Being on time to school matters. It teaches your child that school is important, and allows them to practice the important life skill of promptness. Make a plan each school night: have their backpack ready, school lunch packed, clothes laid out, and water bottle filled. Wake up early enough to have sufficient time to get yourself and your child ready for the day, including eating a healthy breakfast, and factor in plenty of commute time. When the morning runs smoothly and your child arrives on time, this sets the scene for a successful school day.
6. It's okay to cry
For some children, the first day of school is their first time saying goodbye to parents or caregivers. This may evoke nervousness and even tears, and that's okay. Crying is a way for children to show their sadness and ask for help, and your child’s teachers are there to meet those needs. Trust that your child will develop new skills, including resilience and independence. Trust that their teacher will get to know them and help them acclimate to the new school environment, so they feel happy and safe.
7. It's okay for parents to cry, too
Starting school is a big step not only for your child, but for you, too. It's normal to feel both happy and a sense of loss during this transition. After all, your baby is growing up! Parenting is a long process of nurturing your child, then trusting enough to let them go.
8. Communicate with your child’s teachers
Did your child have a difficult morning and skip breakfast? Did you child stay up late last night, because grandparents were visiting? Does your family plan to be out of town on a school day? When young children start school, the partnership and communication between home (you) and school (your child’s teachers and school administrators) is foundational. Communicating regularly with your child’s teachers will help them meet your child’s needs and support your family.
9. Make new parent friends
When your child starts school, you join a new community of families. Reach out to fellow new parents to make connections and bond over this shared experience. A smile and a small hello at school drop-offs and pick-ups will go a long way! These connections will give you camaraderie and support as your child starts the school journey.
10. Let go of what you know, and embrace the new
Starting school impacts your family routine and your child’s development in a significant way. There are big changes all around, and it's an exciting and bittersweet time. Let go of what you know, and be ready to embrace the beautiful and new. Have a wonderful school year!
Rita Truong is Director of Small World (1s and 2s) at Avenues The World School, an independent school in New York City. She earned her B.A. in Elementary Education at California State Polytechnic University and M.A. at Teachers College, Columbia University.
