The first day of kindergarten is a milestone moment for children that their parents will remember forever. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that around five million children attend an organized preschool or daycare facility in the United States. Children who attend preschool or daycare typically make a seamless transition to kindergarten. However, parents can help their youngsters prepare for kindergarten prior to the first day of school.
- Attend orientation or related events. Elementary schools are typically in larger buildings than preschools or daycares, which can be intimidating for children. Attending kindergarten orientation or related events helps children see their classrooms, and meet their teachers and classmates.
- Meet kids in the neighborhood. Regardless of where kids go to daycare or preschool, they’ll meet new friends when they get to kindergarten. Introduce them to kids in the neighborhood who may be headed to the same school to help calm their nerves. They will then see those familiar faces on the bus or in class.
- Avoid lengthy goodbyes. Despite feeling a bit teary-eyed on your child’s first day of kindergarten, limit your goodbye to a hug, kiss, and some words of encouragement. Emphasize the positives and the fun they’ll have, so kids arrive at school in a good frame of mind.
- Let them know you’ll be there at the end of the day. Let children know that, just like daycare and preschool, you’ll pick them up at school or the bus stop after school. This sense of the familiar helps to calm kids’ nerves and reassures them you’ll be there at end of the school day.
The first day of kindergarten is a big moment for young children. Taking steps to calm first-day jitters helps ensure children have a positive start to their academic career.
