Parents usually get emotional when their child goes to school for the first time, it’s really a big emotional moment for parents, for every family. It’s exciting but also scary for kids and parents. If you know how to deal with your kid it would be easy for them to go school confidently and happily. This is a whole guide that has all you need to know about getting your child ready for school, from recommendations for parents on the first day of school to a helpful checklist for youngsters going back to school.
Understanding Child Readiness for School
Before we talk about how to get your child ready for school, let’s first talk about what “child readiness for school” implies. It’s not enough to merely know letters and numbers to be ready. You also need to be emotionally, socially, and physically ready. Can your youngster follow directions? Are they able to be apart from you for short periods of time? Are they okay with talking to other kids?
Parents usually compare their child with others but they need to understand that every child is different and has different ways to learn so they should not compare. Teach your child some basic things like washing hands, eat without help. These little things make your child behave well and make it easy for the child to go to school.
Practical Preschool Preparation Tips
1. Go to school together
One of the easiest ways to be ready for preschool is to make the new place feel like home. If you can, take your youngster to the school before the first day. Make your child comfortable, introduce them with the teachers, walk with them around the classroom, playground and bathrooms.
2. Read Books About School
Reading storybooks to kids is a pleasant approach to educate them what to expect. Read novels that are right for your child’s age about starting school and chat about how the characters feel. This lets kids talk about their worries.
3. Set up a school routine early on
Make a daily bedtime and wakeup routine for school a week or two weeks before school starts.. This will assist your child’s body clock change effortlessly. You should also practice getting dressed and eating breakfast on time.
4. Put Labels on Things
Putting labels on everything such as bags, bottles and lunch boxes helps both kids and teachers maintain their stuff. Kids should add this thing on their to do before going to school.
5. Learn to be independent
Teach your child basic things and try to let them do it by themselves. Show them how to pack a bag, open a lunchbox and put on their shoes correctly. These skills make them more confident and capable.
Advice for parents on the first day of school
The first day is really tough for both kids and parents. But it’s on parents how they make their child comfortable. The first day can still be stressful if you do everything right. But here are some realistic tips for parents to make their child first day of school go easily :
1. Stay calm and stay positive.
Kids can tell how you feel. They can feel the same way if you look nervous or upset. When you talk about school, be positive and happy.
2. Don’t say goodbye for too long.
Don’t say goodbye for too long on the first day. Instead of long goodbyes, a short embrace, grin, and “See you soon!” are better.
3. you can bring comfort things
Some schools allow kids to bring their small comfort things like teddy bears and family photos. You can discuss it with the teacher , it’s better to know someone might help with separation anxiety.
4. Talk to Teachers
You can talk to a teacher anytime for anything your child needs. You also can discuss anxiety , habits with the teacher. It’s better for the teacher to handle the child more calmly.
5. Be patient
It’s challenging for kids to go school at first but parents can motivate them and boost their confidence. Always give a positive smile to them and be patient. They will settle down by themselves once they feel safe there.
Helping your Child get used to School
As it’s hard and takes time to adjust at a new place or a new schedule. You also need to be supportive at home and boost them up for school :
- Ask questions: ask them a few questions about his day like “ what did he/she play today?” This will make your child comfortable to share.
- Stay on track: Set the same eat and sleep schedule will make your child feel safe.
- Praise small successes :Enjoy your child little things like meeting someone new or learning a rhyme. A positive attitude makes kids look forward to school.
- Stay in Touch with Your Teachers :Talking to teachers will help you to know better about your child’s progress.
Back to School Checklist for Kids
There are some useful things for kids which they need for school :
- A bag
- A water bottle
- A lunchbox
- Extra set of clothes
- A nap mat or blanket ( if needed )
- School accessories ( pencil, crayons & erasers)
- Medical informations to the teacher
- A comfort item( if allowed)
Check the list before a week so you don’t have to run in the last minute
Last Thoughts
It’s not enough to just get your child ready for school, it’s also about motivating them, teaching them basic things, being independent and excited to learn. Every child is different, you should know how to talk, how to deal with them and what makes your child safe and happy.
Your attitude sets your child for school. Be patient, positive and trust your child.
Tell them you’re going to a safe and secure place and your love and support will be with them.
These recommendations will help you to get your child ready for school.
Also Read :- Easy Morning Routine for Parents With More Than One Child