Even if your child has been in child care the first day of
"real" school is an important event often marked by
tense anticipation. Getting your child off to a good start
the first few weeks of school will build future positive
attitudes.
If your child is about to start school for the first time,
you may find the following ideas helpful.
- Visit the school a few times before the start of classes.
Get to know the school on the weekend. A big, new school
is less intimidating on a quiet Saturday or Sunday. Walk
or drive the route your child will take, look at the
playground, walk around the school, and even look into a
window. This helps your child begin get used to the new
environment. Next, visit the school while it is in
session. If possible, let your youngster see the room
and meet the teacher. Many schools have specific times
when you can learn more about the school.
- Allow your child to feel scared about starting school.
Do not try to dismiss or ignore your child's feelings of
fear. Point out that children are sometimes scared when
they first go off to school because they miss their
parents and do not know what to expect--some children
even cry a little at first. Tell your child that the
teacher knows a lot about children, and will take very
good care of your child. Talk about the feelings you had
during your first day of school, and tell something funny
or positive that happened to you. Finally, if you work
outside the home, try to arrange a few extra hours at
home during your child's first week, if possible.
- Prepare your child at home.
One way to relieve some anxiety is to play school at
home. Another way is to talk in specific terms about
what will happen. Talk about how your child will get to
and from school. Talk to your child about what he or
she is likely to do during the day and what you will be
doing while your child is away. Tell your child what
will happen once school is over for the day. Read books
together about other children's school experiences.
- Try not to build too much significance into the first day.
Your child's first day of school is indeed a milestone.
Do prepare and provide reassurance, but do not treat it
as a world-shaking event. Your child will reach the
first day of school with less fear if it is treated as a
normal part of everyday life.
- Once at school, do not force your child to participate.
Allow your child to get used to the new place by
observing rather than taking part. Your child is likely
to resist if you push too hard.
- Make your good-byes short and visible.
If you do take your child to the classroom, do not try to
sneak away while your child is doing an activity. Always
say good-bye. Regardless of where you say good-bye, try
to act casual and upbeat. If your child protests, remain
calm but state firmly that there is no other choice, and
you know your child has the ability to start and remain
in school.
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File CHL3795F.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.
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