Back-to-school season has rolled around, and kids are stepping out of their parents’ protective arms and into the structured world of formal education, where they learn to navigate social interactions.
How old was your child when they first started school?
Some kids start daycare or are cared for by a nanny from infancy because of their parents' work needs. Others begin their journey during the toddler or preschool years, often right as they are moving on from diapers. And then there are the kids who do not start until they are around four or five, entering school at the typical age for compulsory education.
What does the first day of school feel like?
Is it a mix of excitement and nerves, complete with tears or tantrums, or do they just dash off to play without a backward glance?
Upon arriving at school, children transition from a world where they were cared for individually to one where attention is shared among many. Although this adjustment takes time, the benefits of attending school include developing independent living habits, recognizing the needs of others, reducing egocentrism, and building empathetic ability.
"Mom, I don't want to go to school!"
Has your child expressed this reluctance to go to school?
Why do some children not want to go to school?
Perhaps it is their first time without their primary caregiver, making everything seem daunting and new?
Maybe they must form new bonds with teachers and classmates and find their place in this unfamiliar setting?
Or would it be possible that they're worried that their classmates might not like them or feel like they are no longer the center of attention?
But if this statement arises mid-term, it might be due to changes in the school environment, such as a favorite classmate or beloved teacher leaving, or something happening in class that frightens the child. This is a time to communicate with your child and their teachers to understand the issue and discuss how to help the child overcome it.
Guiding a Smooth Transition to School: Pro Tips for Parents
Boost Exposure: Arrange a tour of the new school and gauge your child’s reaction. Before school starts, periodically pass by the school to see other children and teachers. If the school playground is open on weekends, take the opportunity to visit or play.
Foster Positive Associations: If your child knows someone who will be at the school, like an older sibling or a friend, talk about these connections to build excitement.
Share Stories: Read school-themed picture books that resonate with your child’s age group. Discuss the storylines and relate them to what your child might experience, reducing fear of the unknown.
Sync Routines Early: Meet with teachers to understand their approach and get a rundown on the daily schedule. Start mirroring these routines at home before school starts to lessen any potential anxiety.
Prep Together: Chat about what your child is excited to wear or bring to school. If the school requires packed lunches or snacks, plan and prepare these with your child ahead of the time to create a sense of anticipation.
Use transitional objects: Allow your child to choose their favorite toy or doll to take to school as an object of comfort. Or give them a photo of you or the family to look at whenever they miss home.
Create a Goodbye Ritual: Saying goodbye on the first day of school can be tough, but establishing a routine, such as” a quick hug and a kiss”, or “a ten-second hug followed by a kiss goodbye”, can help ease separation anxiety and reassure your child.
Clarify Pick-Up Times: Children feel safer when they know what to expect. Confirm when you will be there to pick them up, aligning it with a timeframe they understand, like after a nap and snack, when they can expect to be picked up.
Children are incredibly resilient. With the right support and preparation, they can navigate new challenges and emerge stronger. Just give them time, and you will see children gradually develop their own coping mechanisms and show great adaptability.
Was this guide helpful?
Share your child's first day experiences and any additional tips you might have in the comments below! Let’s support each other through this journey.
___
Author Bio
Abby S. is a native of Taiwan and graduated from National Taiwan University (NTU) with a degree in Psychology and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. After obtaining her clinical psychologist license in Taiwan, she moved to the United States with her husband. She currently resides in Cambridge, Boston.
As a mother of two adorable daughters, Abby has developed a deep interest in parenting and child-rearing topics. Her journey into motherhood has highlighted the significant differences between Taiwanese and American educational cultures. She looks forward to sharing and exchanging insights with you on this journey of parenting together
Comments