School is rapidly approaching! I hope you and your kindergartener are
excited about the new chapter of life you will both be experiencing.
School is a major part of every child's life, and it can be a daunting
one for many. Parents' attitudes affect children's attitudes, which can
make the transition to school easier or harder.
As you talk about starting school with your kindergartener, do you talk about the fun, interesting things she will learn? How it will be similar to previous experiences at daycare or preschool? How the adults at school will help them settle in and not get lost?
As much as possible, keep your attitude light and positive around your kindergartener, even if you are convinced you'll be a basket case the first day of school; children often take their cues from their parents in how they think and feel. If they hear you talking about "I'll be a bigger mess than he will the first day," or "I tear up just thinking about it," they'll more likely struggle with a smooth goodbye at school. Keep the goodbye short and cheerful.
Below are some links to preparing your kindergartener for the transition; many have suggestions for concrete things you can do.
Ten Tips for Helping Your Child Adjust to School.
Goodbye Without Tears (this is geared more towards pre-K aged children, but still worth a gander).
Overcoming Separation Anxiety on the First Day of School.
Helping Kids Adjust to School.
As you talk about starting school with your kindergartener, do you talk about the fun, interesting things she will learn? How it will be similar to previous experiences at daycare or preschool? How the adults at school will help them settle in and not get lost?
As much as possible, keep your attitude light and positive around your kindergartener, even if you are convinced you'll be a basket case the first day of school; children often take their cues from their parents in how they think and feel. If they hear you talking about "I'll be a bigger mess than he will the first day," or "I tear up just thinking about it," they'll more likely struggle with a smooth goodbye at school. Keep the goodbye short and cheerful.
Below are some links to preparing your kindergartener for the transition; many have suggestions for concrete things you can do.
Ten Tips for Helping Your Child Adjust to School.
Goodbye Without Tears (this is geared more towards pre-K aged children, but still worth a gander).
Overcoming Separation Anxiety on the First Day of School.
Helping Kids Adjust to School.
