by Melissa Shank

Created on: August 10, 2010   Last Updated: February 01, 2011

If your child will be entering preschool in the fall, many preparations and adjustments must be made. For some parents, preparing yourself is harder than preparing your child. They are embarking on a huge, childhood milestone and it may be difficult to "loosen the strings". For children, some are filled with fear, and others with excitement. Open communication and the following preparation tips can help to remedy this rocky transition.

Parents need to accept and embrace the change. Do not be sad of days gone by. Cherish the memories and look forward to things yet to come.

Become familiar with the school and visit it several times before fall. Point out specific items that may be of importance such as bathrooms, tissues, emergency exits, coat and book bag racks, etc. Allow your child to explore the school independently. They must know that parents are not permitted to stay and should feel comfortable without you at their side.

Teach them how to interact with other children and encourage them to create friendships. Remind them to share and use good manners. Encourage them confide in their teacher and express any problems, questions or concerns to them.

Let your child choose their own school supplies and book bag. Allow them to choose a few new outfits. They will be excited to put them to use.

Make sure your child starts an "early to sleep, early to rise" routine 2-3 weeks prior to the start of school. Ample sleep is important for a good attitude. Allow them a late night on the weekends as a treat for going to school and working hard all week.

Provide a hearty breakfast for your child every morning, and wake them early enough to enjoy it. Nothing could be worse than sending your child off to school rushed and hungry. Even ten extra minutes can make a huge difference on a busy morning.

On the first day of school, do not cry and do not linger. You set the tone for your child's attitude, so fill it with happiness and enthusiasm. Assure them that you will return again soon. Give them a big hug and kiss and be on your way.

Enjoy your time alone! Do something special for yourself or with your younger children while your child is away at school. Now may be your chance to read a book, go to the gym or pick up a part-time job.

Be active and involved. If your schedule does not allow you to volunteer at the school, be sure to volunteer your time at home. Discuss your day and review the lessons learned. Spend some quality time together after dinner.

Lastly, stress the importance of education to your child. Explain to them all the fun things they will learn and how smart they will become. It may be quite some time before they appreciate a good education, but someday they will be thankful it and all the memories they made along the way!

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