What Kids Need for Starting School
What kids needed when starting school for the first time
Many parents are reflecting on the transition of their child to school as the year comes to an end. This is a big milestone for some. Big School is right around the corner. Understanding what children need can make a big difference during this time of transition.
Start of School Excitement
Anthony Semann is a consultant in early education at Semann and Slattery. He says that, while many parents feel anxious about the transition, children are usually excited. Anthony says that the key is to maintain a calm demeanor. The problem is that we parents share our war stories. “Statements like’school was not kind to me’ may instill fear into our children,” explains he. It’s important to encourage their enthusiasm instead of projecting your own experiences.
When this topic isn’t talked about excessively, children are usually excited to start school. Talking about school early in life can cause unnecessary anxiety. Anthony says that between February and the beginning of next year, there is a lot to prepare. This is an eternity for a child.
Positive messaging is important.
Our words as parents have weight. If we portray school as a difficult or negative experience, this can affect our child’s perception. Inspire curiosity and a sense of adventure. Share stories about the excitement and joy of learning new things, meeting new people, or engaging in different activities.
You can help your child see school as an opportunity to learn and enjoy, rather than a stressful place. Plan activities that are related to the school experience. For example, visiting a local library or attending community events. These experiences can create excitement and anticipation.
Building Anticipation
Parents can increase their child’s enthusiasm for school by incorporating school-related activities in their daily routine. You can read together books about the first day of school, watch educational programs, or do arts and crafts related to school themes. These activities are not only a great way to bond, but they also help you feel more comfortable with the change.
Assessing School Readiness
Many parents have already decided on their child’s education by this time of the year. If you are still unsure, it is important to determine whether your child has the emotional maturity required for school. Anthony says that parents are often concerned about whether their child can read and write. However, this is not the main concern.
According to research, emotional readiness is the more accurate way to measure preparedness. “Can your child take independent decisions?” “Can they follow two- or three-step instructions?” Anthony asks. Can they, for example, go to the refrigerator, get an ice cream, and then return? It is important to be able to follow sequences, because school routines depend on it.
The Key Factors To Consider
- Separation skills, How well can your child separate themselves from you? Are they anxious when you go or are they able to engage in activities on their own?
- Interactions Social: Evaluate how your child interacts and plays with others. Can they play and communicate with others? This will have a major impact on their ability to adjust to a new school environment.
- Frustration management: Watch how your child manages frustration. Are they able to cope with frustration, or are they more likely to resort to tears and tantrums when they feel frustrated? Understanding their emotional reactions can help them prepare for the challenges they will face in school.
- Follow Directions Can your child understand simple instructions? This is a crucial skill for success in school, since teachers often give multiple-step instructions during class.
Don’t be concerned if you discover that your child lacks certain skills. Many can be acquired over time. You should focus on developing their social and emotional skills. This will help them in the classroom.
Encouraging Independence
Consider implementing simple routines that encourage independence at home to help your child be more independent before they start school. Encourage them to help you prepare simple meals or take care of their belongings. These tasks can help boost their self-confidence and give them a feeling of accomplishment.
The Children’s Perspective
Anthony interviewed 400 children who had been in school for three months. He asked them: “What would you have done to make school easier?” These responses were insightful.
Children overwhelmingly said that they wished rules had been made clear. One child wanted to know that he was not allowed to touch a piano in the class. Why is it there if we cannot touch it? He asked and many people resonated with this question.
One child said, “I wish I had been told that you have to sit down on the floor when your teacher plays the triangle.” This transition from daycare can be difficult for many children.
Confusing School Rules? Here’s How to Address Them
Structure and predictability are important to children. Uncertainty and anxiety can result when children don’t understand the rules. You can clarify expectations as a parent. Consider these strategies:
- Common Rules: Discuss common rules of school behavior such as how you should interact with your teachers and peers. Talk about the importance of waiting for their turn or raising your hand before speaking.
- Role Playing Scenarios : Simulate classroom situations by engaging in role playing activities. This can make children feel less anxious and more prepared.
- Encourage questions: Create an environment in which your child is comfortable asking you questions. It can help them to clarify any misunderstandings, and make them feel more comfortable.
Anthony discovered that there is a widespread fear about bathroom etiquette. In daycares, bathrooms are a place where children can bond and exchange stories. The high ceilings in school bathrooms and the stark environment can make them feel intimidating. Children may feel overwhelmed when faced with new procedures, such as washing their hands without soap.
Building a Community Sense
Encourage your child’s view of their classroom as one community. Share stories of teamwork, collaboration, and how friends support each other. Saying “Everyone works together in school to learn and have a good time!” can reduce anxiety and encourage positive social interactions.
Prepare Your Child for School
There are several easy steps that parents can take to help ease the transition. Anthony offers some advice.
- Familiarize them with the School Drive past the school, and tell positive stories about it. Make up some if you don’t know any! Create a story around your school to help create excitement.
- Wear school shoes: Allow your child to wear his or her new school shoes during the summer. It will help them get used to the shoes before their first day of school, and they’ll feel more confident.
- Practice: Teach your child to use the water bubbler. It is a skill that they will use in school and can help reduce anxiety.
- Familiarize Your Child With Their Lunch Box: Pack lunches for your children over the summer even if they are not going anywhere. This will help them to become familiar with their lunchbox. Allow them to choose their favorite foods, which will give them a feeling of ownership.
- Arrange Playdates Identify classmates that will attend the same school, and schedule playdates over the summer. It can be helpful to get familiar with your peers.
- Attend any orientations or open houses that your school holds. This will give you valuable insight into the school environment, and also allow your children to meet other staff members.
Prepare for Daily Routines
Practice daily schedules with your child at home to help them transition into their new routine. Set a time limit for getting up in the morning, preparing for school, and eating breakfast. This structure will help your child to feel more secure and better understand what is expected of them at school.
What to expect once school starts
Feeling overwhelmed
Children can experience a rollercoaster of emotions during their first few days in school. It’s important not to bombard them with questions after a day of new experiences. Consider waiting until after dinner or the bath to ask them questions instead of bombarding them at school. It allows them time to digest and unwind from their day.
Making Friends
Parents often worry about their children making friends. Consider asking your child’s teacher about their social interactions if you are worried. Anthony assures that it takes time for children to make new friends. Asking, “Have you made any new friends today?” is not the best way to go. Consider asking “Who sat with you in class?” This is a less-pressured way to gauge social interaction.
Managing Exhaustion
It can be difficult for children to adjust to the new schedule. Anthony advises: “Be prepared not to do anything that weekend.” Let them relax and enjoy quality time with you. After a busy week of socializing and school, your child may need some time to relax.
Encourage family or quiet activities that do not require much energy. Reading together, solving puzzles or going for a walk with your family can be simple ways to recharge.
Navigating Challenges
As your child adjusts to a new routine, they may face challenges. Validate their feelings and encourage an open dialogue. Listen attentively to their frustrations about not understanding the instructor or having trouble making friends. Reassure them.
Encourage them to share their feelings about school. It’s okay for them to be nervous about something new. This can help them build resilience and face challenges with confidence.
Emotional Parenting
It’s not only a big deal for kids, but also for their parents. Anthony says that the transition has an impact on the whole family dynamic.
Prepare the night before your child’s first day of school. The morning rush is reduced by preparing the night before.
Chaos sets the tone for a good day. Set alarms and prepare your lunches the night prior to simplify your morning routine.
Reflect on Your Experience
Parents can reflect on their own experiences at school. While it’s important to acknowledge your emotions, you must also remember that each child’s journey is unique. Focus on your child’s experience, not yours.
Consider talking to a family member or trusted friend about your anxieties. You can use this as a way to get your feelings out and gain perspective.
Connecting with other parents
Starting school is a great opportunity to meet other parents. Build relationships and engage in conversation during drop-offs and pickups. These connections can lead you to support networks for both your child and yourself.
Consider joining parent groups and attending school events to connect with other parents. These relationships can help create a feeling of community that can be very valuable during this transitional period.
Conclusion
The transition to school can be a major milestone for children and their parents. This new chapter can be exciting with the right preparation. Parents can ease the transition by understanding their children’s needs, whether they are emotional, social, or practical.
You and your child will likely experience a range of emotions at this time. Celebrate the small wins and keep communication open. The first year at school is only the beginning of an exciting journey of discovery and growth.
You can help your child navigate this transition with curiosity and confidence by staying in touch, being involved with their school experience and giving them the support they need. All the best to new school children and their families. You can do it!
