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It’s creeping up on you. In just a few short weeks, rush hour will begin
earlier, those big yellow buses will slow down everyone and you will enter into yet, another milestone.
Sending your toddler to school alone for the first time can seem so
daunting and scary, but after a few tears, (more than likely from you, not him/her), this day you have anticipated will be one of many fond memories.
As with any ‘first’ for young children, starting school can be exciting as well as scary. If they have never been to daycare or programming, separating from Mom and Dad can be frightening. Their biggest fear is possibly that you might not return to get them. Parents often have many fears as well- will my child make friends, will he eat his snack/lunch? While it might be difficult to hide your own emotions, it is important to be strong and let your child know that school will be FUN, and that you will be there at the end of the day to hear all about the amazing things he did in just one day!
Here are a few tips for a great first experience:
1)Talk about what the first day will look like: visiting with your child for acouple of hours the first day, and maybe drop off for a couple of hours the next. Let them know what to expect in their day. Will they be eating lunch there? Do they know anyone in their class? (Setting up some play dates before school starts will help alleviate their
insecurities about friendships in the class).
2)Keep goodbyes to a minimum. The longer you stay, the harder it will
be to pull away from them. Give hugs before you approach the
school door. When inside say goodbye, give a kiss, tell them you
love them and you’ll see them very soon. (Then go to your car or
around the side of the building and have a really good cry).
3)If you’re packing lunches or snacks, make it fun. Sandwich cut outs
and putting in a few of their favourite healthy snacks will make them
smile and know you are thinking of them!
4)When you pick your child up, make a huge deal about what a
wonderful day they had. Ask questions. Try not to tell them you
missed them so much. While it sounds silly, that might give them
some guilt for leaving you.
5)Be prepared that if day #1 went smoothly, day #2 might not. Now
they know what to expect!
Enjoy this next step in raising children. This is just the beginning of their
education and before long, they will be teaching you!
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