Taming kindergarten first-day jitters for your child

Kindergarten may be a child’s introduction to formal schooling. Although many families send their children to pre-K programs, it’s not a necessity. Kindergarten, particularly full-day sessions, will set the course of formal schooling for years to come.

USAFacts.com says between 3.5 and 4 million children attend kindergarten each year. Many children about to begin kindergarten understandably are anxious about what lies in store. First day of school jitters are common and may lead to fears and tears in many homes. There are ways to make the first day of kindergarten less scary for kids. Here are some pointers families can follow.

Gradually introduce separations

Kindergarten may be the first time children are away from their parents for extended periods of time. Families can introduce controlled separations that gradually increase in duration. Play dates with friends at friends’ homes can stretch a few hours, or grandparents can take kids out for excursions. The goal is to show kids they can thrive without their parents being around.

Attend school-sponsored functions

Many schools offer meet-and-greet opportunities for incoming kindergarteners in a fun setting. It may be an ice cream social or a pizza party that enables newcomers to mingle. This way, some faces will be familiar when school begins.

Create a special send-off goodbye

Make children look forward to leaving with a handshake, wave or another goodbye that is unique to them. Then this goodbye can be repeated each morning at drop-off.

Touch base with other parents

Parents can use community social media groups to connect with other families who have kids going into kindergarten. Then children can make friends before the start of school and arrive together.

Wind down summer hours for your child

Parents can acclimate kids to going to bed earlier and rising earlier to mimic a school-year schedule. Begin this transition a few weeks before school starts.

Kindergarten is a chance to learn new things and make friends. Although the change comes with some nerves, families take various steps with a goal toward making sure kids are excited about starting kindergarten.

Metro Creative

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