First Day of School Jitters

The first day of class is so exciting! It can also be a little hard on us parents and little bit scary for our little ones. I can't give you much advice on how to make watching your kids grow up any easier, but I can offer some help and reassurance to help make their first day a positive experience.

First, you can make sure that your child is excited by talking to them ahead of time about the fun they are going to have. Reassure them that you know they will have fun, make new friends, and do lots of exciting things they enjoy. They don't need a backpack or any other specific supplies, but it can be a lot of fun for them to get a special backpack to prepare for school.

When dropping them off plan on leaving quickly and make sure that your child knows that you are confident that they will have a great time. It is important to remember that we can inspire confidence in our children when we are not afraid to let our kids be independent. If your child is excited and emotionally fine plan on signing them in, helping them put their things in their cubby, taking those special first day pictures, and then give them a hug and kiss and say a confident goodbye. Remember to remind them that you will be back to pick them up and that you are so excited to hear all about their day!

Now I do know from past experience that not everyone can have it that easy. If your child is having a hard time emotionally try to stick with the same routine. We want to inspire confidence in your child and if you are having a hard time then your child will sense it and it will be harder for them to feel reassured. Help your child understand how the time will pass by giving them information of the tasks you will be doing while they are at school. For example "Mommy is going to do the dishes and fold laundry and then come back to pick you up." Try to stay away from offering rewards or incentives, as your child should know that school is not an option but rather an expectation. We know how precious your little ones are and we will be there to give comfort with hugs and attention and can take them in our arms when you need to say goodbye. We will call any parent whose child is having a really hard time and update them. Please try to avoid sneaking out and not saying goodbye as this can be much more scary for your child.

We have planned a really fun get to know you day and are confident that your child will have a good first day! We are excited for the first day of school and we are really looking forward to getting to know your little ones better! Hope that helps and if you still have specific questions please feel free to contact me.