Starting school or transitioning to a new classroom is a major milestone for children and parents. It can be both fun and stressful. It is not uncommon to experience a wide range of feelings, sometimes within the same day. Parents may notice changes in a child’s sleep patterns, bathroom habits, or emotional responses. Children often become clingy, or revert to earlier stages of development. In most cases, this is a short phase, and children will return to their former selves once they have processed some of the changes.
Parents have the opportunity to influence their child’s experience through preparation and communication. Here are some suggestions for how parents can support their child through a transition:
- Talk to your child about what to expect at school: activities (circle time, playground, lunch, nap), the toys, and the other children
- Let your child know it’s OK to feel nervous or excited, or even confused about starting school, and try to reassure him/her
- Give your child a family picture or familiar object from home that will comfort him/her
- Remind your child that you will be back later. It is crucial for children to hear the message that “Mommy and Daddy always come back”
- Talk to your child’s teacher to make a plan for drop-off
Children may find comfort on some familiar books that address the challenges and fears of starting school. Here are some of our favorites:
- The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
- Will I Have a Friend? by Miriam Cohen
- Timothy Goes to School by Rosemary Wells
- Mouse’s First Day of School by Lauren Thompson
- My First Day at Nursery School by Becky Edwards
- Do I Have to Go to School? by Pat Thomas
Our teachers can be a very valuable resource, and we want you to know that we are here to work with your whole family to support you through this transition. Every child goes through the separation process on his/her own timeline. With patience and reassurance, each child will have an exciting and rewarding school experience.