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The first day of school. For some kids, it’s a very exciting day; they just walk through the school doors and never look back. But a good number of children are worried about this new experience and about what to expect.
For children who have gone to playgroup or daycare, the anxiety about the ‘first day’ may be something they’ve already experienced. However, actually going to school for the first time may bring different worries. Talking to your child about what he is feeling and what he can look forward to will help hin come to grips with what lies ahead.
Ask your child what he is thinking and if he has questions. Explain what happens during a typical day of school. Try to find out if he is afraid of anything so you can help ease some of fears. Some children worry about what will be expected of them so remind your child that he won’t have to learn everything overnight.
Use positive words to encourage him; you might even tell him about your first day of school. Emphasize any school activities you know will be enjoyable, for example, “Well, you love books and there will be a reading session every morning.”
Prior to the first day of class, you can visit the school or even ask you if you could go on a tour. Some schools will let you see the classrooms and other facilities such as the gym, bathroom, or playground. Ask ahead if your child’s teacher or the principal will be there.
Here are 10 practical tips to help your child have a great first day at school: