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The first day of school can be tough for children and their parents. If your child is soon to be joining a reception class, it’s worth helping to prepare them as best you can so that it doesn’t come as much of a shock to the system. A junior school in London have put together the following tips.
Try and chat about school as much as possible in the run up and use positive terminology so that your child can start to feel optimistic about this milestone rather than frightened. There are lots of books about school, both fact and fiction, that you could read to them. Point out other school students that you notice when you’re out and about. If your child is going to be wearing a uniform, take them along to the shop when you buy it so that they can feel more involved. Ask them questions about what they think about it, as this might give you some interesting insights into their expectations and concerns. The idea is to normalise the concept of school as much as possible.
Practise putting the uniform on and off so that your child feels more prepared. You should also practise the route to school, whether that be walking, getting the bus, or driving. Pay the school a visit, even if it’s just on the outside. The more you practise the mundane things, the less strange everything will feel on your child’s first day.
Get in touch with your child’s future teacher in advance and ask them any questions you may have. After all, your child is likely not the only one worrying about the big changes that are to come. Let your child know that you have been talking to their new teacher and talk about how lovely they are.
Once your child has started in a reception class, they are sure to settle in no time at all. Accompany them on their first day to give them a sense of security but be firm when it comes time to leave. Perhaps add a special treat or a note in their lunch bag to settle their nerves. Once they’re home, ask them lots of open-ended questions in a cheerful manner to determine whether or not they are adjusting as they should.
