Let’s Get Ready for School!

By Areej Iftaiha, Psy.D. and Heather Abbott, Psy.D.

The first day of school may be challenging for both children and parents. Here are some helpful tips to adjust to the new experience:

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Tips for Preparing Children for Preschool

  • Help your child get excited about school! Let your child be an active member in preparing for school. Let your child pick out a lunchbox, their indoor shoes or a favorite blanket.

  • Read books about going to school to prepare your child for the new experience.

  • Talk to your child about school. Allow your child to express their feelings by talking, drawing, or dancing. Talk about the daily routine and about how much fun they will have with their new friends. Give your child your full attention while talking about school.

  • If your child has been sleeping past 8:30AM, it is a good idea to start adjusting their bedtime. Put your child to bed 30 minutes earlier each night until reaching the desired bedtime.

First Day of School Do’s

Do show your child that preschool is a safe place. Be excited and cheerful! Although it’s perfect normal to worry about your child, try to avoid showing them that you are nervous. Children pick-up on your anxiety and in return become anxious themselves. If Mom and Dad are nervous about school time, then it indicates to your child that preschool is something for them to be anxious about themselves.

Do trust that your child is in the best hands possible. Teachers are childhood experts. They know how to soothe, calm and comfort your child.

Do make your “goodbyes” at drop off short and sweet. Know that is normal for your child to cry. Crying indicates a secure attachment. Soon, your child will be developing healthy attachments to their teachers and other LOMA staff.

Do remind them when you will be back to pick them up. Children conceptualize time better when given specific events for reference. For example, instead of saying, “Mommy will be back to pick you up at 12:30,” say, “Mommy will be back to pick you up after you eat lunch.”

 

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