by April Knight

Created on: August 18, 2011

Tips to prepare Children for the First Day of School

The first day of school is a big deal and can be somewhat daunting to a lot of school age children.  As a parent there is a lot of preparation for the first day of school to ease all or most of your child’s worries.

Here are several tips to prepare children for the first day of school

List of items to purchase and attend in advance to the first day of school

Purchase school supplies in advance. Purchase school clothes in advance. Attend parent orientation and be sure to go over everything your child needs to know and understand, like expectations and rules that must be followed while in the school building. Attend student/teacher orientation. Attending the student/teacher orientation will enable your child to meet the teacher, possibly meet friends before the first day, and become clearer about the next new grade level.

Schedule/Routines

A child must adjust to a school year routine a week or two prior to the first day of school.  Therefore, gradually transition summer schedules and set a consistent bedtime so your child will be well rested and prepared for their first day of class.

What to do the night before the first day of school

Prepare lunches. Have clothes picked out and ready to wear in the morning. Set everything by the door like backpacks to grab and go. Talk to your child about their feelings pertaining to the first day of school. You may want to have your child write down their excitement and worries; your child will sleep better if their mind is clear. Incorporate an earlier bedtime the night before the first day because it may take a lot longer for the child to drift on to sleep.

 What to do the morning of the first day of school to eliminate your stress as a parent as well as your child’s stress

Wake-up early enough to welcome a peaceful environment to the morning. Set out the lunches and place them beside the door so you do not have to make another trip to the school. Eat a well balanced breakfast. If you are uncertain about a well balanced breakfast, check out Michelle Obama’s new modified version of the food pyramid. Last, but definitely not least on this list, be sure to get your child to school on time to avoid any unnecessary stress.

By following these useful tips to prepare your children for the first day of school, you as the parent have helped them have an enjoyable day as well as a lifetime of warm memories.

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