Remember that unsettled feeling in the pit of your stomach the day you started your last job? The lost night of sleep beforehand? The flurry of thoughts on your brand-new commute: Would you be capable of doing the work expected? Would you be able to find your way around and fit in? Would your new colleagues accept you, befriend you? Would you have anyone to eat lunch with? And oh, no - does your hair look funny and your outfit look wrong?
Your child may be experiencing similar emotions as the first day of school approaches, though she may not yet be able to articulate them. Transitions can be hard. New situations can be scary. Your support and guidance will be essential as your child prepares for her first day - whether she is starting at a new school, or just with a new class and teacher.
Here are some ways you can help your child prepare for the big day:
It may be particularly difficult for small children to express their fears and concerns. They may not know exactly what to expect or how to ask for the information and reassurance they need. Talk to your child about what school will be like. Be as detailed, comforting and encouraging as you can.
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Kindergarten
Many, though not all, children will have had some sort of preschool or playgroup experience by the time they start kindergarten. But that doesn't mean they won't be nervous. Read your child books about starting school. Seeing and hearing how a favorite character deals with school jitters may help children cope with their own emotions.
Don't put too much pressure on your child. Children aren't supposed to know everything before they start school! Learning is what school is for, remember? Put away the flashcards and the writing tablets and leave the instruction to the teacher.
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Elementary school
Even if your child is staying at the same school, she may feel anxious about starting in a new classroom with a new teacher and a new group of kids. Remind her about how, though she may have felt scared at the beginning of the last school year, her fears were resolved. (Today's old friends were last year's new friends! This year's new friends will be next year's old friends!)
Keep the lines of communication open. Let your child know that it's OK to feel jittery. Also Spend quality time with your child in the last days of the summer. This will give them a sense of security and reassure them that you're there for them, solid and sure and loving, even as they embark on a new adventure with new people.
FIND MORE BACK-TO-SCHOOL FROM BABBLE:
The Ultimate Back-to-School Guide: Kids Health, Food, Supplies, and More
11 Tips for Preventing Colds and Promoting Healthy Habits at School
10 Boredom-Breaking Back-to-School Lunchbox Ideas
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