My child is starting at a new school. She has gone to play groups, but just with me – never dropped off. What can I expect and how can I make it easier for her (and me)?
What an exciting time. Stay calm and positive about the school experience. If you are anxious, she will be anxious too. Give as much information as you can. Answer her questions – such as when is snack, what do they have, what she will bring for lunch, who might she know there, when is pick up, etc.
If she seems nervous, put a family picture in her bag or let her wear one of your necklaces – no not the fancy ones, just something to remind her of you. Ask her what would make her feel better or excited about school. Kids come up with great options. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Fast drop offs are best. The longer that you stay, the harder it is on your child. He may think you really won’t leave or that something is wrong and that is why you are staying. It is tough, but keep it fast. Give a check-in call to the school if you are worried.
The first few days may be great and then she might get sad. Totally normal. It was super fun at first. New toys, new kids, new everything. Then it really sets in that it is also time away from you. That is OK – she will bounce back soon.
Starting school is an exciting time for everyone. It may be tough at first, but she will have so much fun with her new friends.
Brandi Davis, ACC, is a professional Parenting Coach, Parent Educator, and Author of O.K. I’m A Parent Now What? She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and be sure to catch her parenting podcasts on iTunes. The goal of Brandi’s practice is to bring respect, calm communication, teamwork, and FUN into the home or classroom. To discover all that Child and Family Coaching can bring to your family stop by www.childandfamilycoaching.com.
The views and opinions expressed on this blog are purely the blog contributor’s. Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Writers may have conflicts of interest, and their opinions are their own.
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