MAMA, DON’T GO!
Make your toddler’s first day of school a special one

Whether your little one is an eager kindergardener or a more seasoned scholar, her fi rst day of school is bound to be fi lled with mixed emotions. Some kids are thrilled to be at school, while others have much difficulty making the home-to-school transition.

Nonetheless there are ways to quell your child’s fears and make sure she’s well-prepared:

Begin talking about school several weeks before the first day.

Get your child to open up about her expectations and ask her if she feels excited, anxious, or a little bit of both. Talk with her about specific worries she has for the upcoming year.

Take a tour of your child’s new school.

Look at the classroom she will be in, the bathrooms, playground, and activity rooms for music, art, and physical education. When you visit, focus on an activity, game, or toy that your child does not have at home, such as tempura paints or a sandbox, and make it something for her to look forward to on her first day. Talk about fun school activities, such as story time, playtime, and snack time, and explain what goes on there.

Explain the upcoming school routine in detail.

Go over your child’s new schedule, including when she needs to wake up, eat breakfast, and be ready to leave in the morning for school. Have a couple practice runs beforehand. Brainstorm with your child to make a list of items you can pack for his lunch that he will surely enjoy.

Start the school year off right by making the first day something to celebrate.

Have a big breakfast, decorate the kitchen, serve a favourite meal, and give out new school supplies or a brand new lunchbox! Don’t forget to pack something familiar in your child’s backpack (like a favourite book) to make her feel more comfortable, along with something new (like an unopened set of crayons) to make her feel special.

Get to school a little while before the bell rings.

The morning arrival time at school is critical, and most kids like a few leisurely moments to get settled in. If you drive your child or if she walks to school, plan to get there at least ten minutes before school starts.

Don’t forget to take pictures! You’ll definitely want to remember your baby’s first day of school.