The first day of school is a huge milestone in your child’s life, and one that can leave both of you feeling stressed and anxious about.

 

Whether your little one is concerned about leaving you, worried about making friends or full of excitement about the prospect of starting something new, you play an integral role in helping them prepare.

 

To ensure your child is ready for their big day, keep the following five dos and don'ts in mind. Personalize fun name and school labels at Wunderlabel.co.uk

 

1. It’s no big deal  

 

DON’T hype up your child’s first day of school too much as it can make them feel anxious. Similarly, by pointing out any potential pitfalls (even if done in a positive way) it will give your child a reason to be unduly worried in the lead up to their first day.

 

DO play school at home with teddy bears or dolls to allow them to experience some of the new concepts they will encounter. Remind them that it’s just like Montessori or playgroup where they were previously settled and happy.

 

 

2. Avoid lingering around on the day

 

DON’T linger during the “moment of separation” when you go to leave their classroom.

 

DO give your child a quick hug and kiss; remind them who will be picking them up and tell them about a fun activity you have planned for their afternoon – then leave. Let the teachers do what they do best and distract the children by getting them quickly involved in activities.

 

3. Be practical

 

DON’T make your little one’s independent life in school any more difficult than it has to be; make sure they can open and close their bag, lunchbox etc. 

 

DO make sure they can take on and off their coat, jumper and shoes by themselves. Ensure they are happy to go to the toilet unaccompanied and wipe away even after a number two! Practice opening and closing of their school bag, lunchbox and drinks container. Check they can recognise their name so they can easily identify their coat hook and any labels you have sewn on their clothing and personal items.

 

4. Take a trip up to the school

 

DON’T make school a mysterious, potentially scary, place.

 

DO visit the school grounds with your child so that they are familiar with how it looks and where the playground is. Wave to the school as you pass by in the car and rehearse the route you will drive or walk.

 

 

5. Acknowledge their concerns

 

DON’T dismiss their anxiety or make them feel babyish for feeling nervous.

 

DO remind them of times they were scared but overcame their fear - going on the big slide in the park, for example. Sometimes allowing your child to bring a small toy or keepsake from you can offer reassurance and help them maintain that link between home and school.

 

6. Don't get angry if they say they are never going back

 

DON’T dwell on the negative and insist that they have another 12 years of school!

 

DO talk about all the fun memories you have from your school days and suggest you see how they feel once they see what exciting activities Teacher has planned. Organise a play date with one of their classmates, watch out at the school drop-off for any parents you recognise or approach a mum you know has a child in your child’s class.

 

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