My youngest child’s First Day of School is right around the corner. We’ve been prepping for it all summer. She’s been practicing her writing and reading and sharing. She’s excited to ride the bus and have lunch with her new friends.
I’m wondering though if what we are doing is enough. Here is my checklist to get the kids fully ready for the big day.
Stick to Routines: Wake up, make bed, get dressed, eat, brush teeth. This is how I like to start each
day but the summer lazy sets in and breakfast is sometimes delayed or teeth aren’t brushed till bedtime. Once school starts there’s no way we can deviate from this plan as that will start the day off on the wrong foot. Get your routines in order now so that they kids get used to it and won’t forget important steps as you see the school bus coming down the street.
Be Prepared: Supplies, backpacks and lunch boxes are all needed for the new school year. Most supply lists aren’t available till after your child has already begun school but get started now with basics. Most elementary students need pencils, marble notebooks, erasers and folders. Stock your child’s backpack so their first day they are prepared with the basics.
Listen to Concerns: Fear is natural with any new adventure. Talk to your child about what they are thinking, what they are feeling and what they are expecting. Even the simple things like a new haircut or new shoes can be exciting and give children something to talk about with their new friends. Get them excited about what’s to come.
Take a Tour: If your child’s school is hosting an open house or meet and greet, go. Walking into a new building and looking down long halls can be intimidating. Show your child the way to their classroom, where the restrooms are and even what to do if they get lost. Introductions can be helpful. Meeting the principal, librarian, music teacher and secretary gives a feeling of familiarity when they greet your child on the first day.
Preparing for the first day takes more than knowing how to read or write. The littlest ones going in kindergarten and preschool need some emotional prep also.
Backpack image provided by Steve Wilhelm via Flickr
School Hallway image provided by WuperUpper via Flickr
