Surviving the first day of preschool

Sending your child to his or her first day at school can be an emotional experience for the parents as well. However, there are ways to cope with it and make it a day to remember. Here are a few tips that will surely help you and your kid on his first day.  

Interest your child

A few days before the start of preschool, let your child pick out his own bag, set of notebooks, pencils and other school supplies. If he is excited about using his new supplies, he’s less likely to cry or get nervous on the first day.

Don’t rush

On the first day of school, you and your child should wake up earlier than usual. Eat breakfast unhurriedly. Go through your child’s normal routine at his own pace so he won’t feel harried or stressed. Allow your child to pick out his own clothes too. If he is comfortable with his appearance, he would be more confident in preschool.

Set expectations

Some children are excited to go to school. If your child is somewhat hesitant, make sure you set his expectations. Explain to him why there are many kids in school and why his teacher would ask him to do some things. If your child know what to expect in school, he would just take everything in stride.

Don’t pressure your child

We all want our child to excel academically but don’t pressure your child too much especially on the first day. If he refuses to participate in class, don’t scold him. Encourage him instead. Tell your child that since he already knows the ABCs, numbers  and other cool things, he’ll surely do great. Explain to him the his teacher is there to help him when he needs it.

Never compare

You should accept the fact someone may be more outgoing, smarter or more focused than your child. Do not be disheartened by this. Since you know your child’s strong points, be it in arts, communication or in other areas, enhance them and he’ll surely shine. Additionally by focusing on your child and not on other kids, you won’t feel any disappointment (even if you deny this).

Don’t say goodbye

Leaving your child even for a few hours in school can cause a lot of hardships for both you and your child. Separation anxiety at this point is really high so make everything light. Instead of saying goodbye, tell your son, “See you later.” Give him a big hug, tell him to have fun and meet to new friends. If he ends up crying or clinging to you, offer a slight bribe by saying to him that you’ll be waiting for him after school with a new toy or his favorite food. Stress, however, that you’ll only give it to him if you get a good feedback from his teacher and this would only be on the first day.

Don’t overthink

The entire time your child is in school, make sure to relax. Do not think about him and how he is currently in school because you will soon find out anyways. Take this time alone to do other chores, go shopping or just taking a quick nap at home. By the time you’ll pick up your child in school, you will be refreshed and less anxious.

Also read: Choosing the right preschool