Is your little one
starting school? How to beat those first day nerves (for you and your child!)
For both
parents and children alike, a child’s first day at school can be very
nerve-wracking and highly emotional. For the little one, the prospect of spending
the day with new people they don’t know, doing new, unfamiliar activities can
be very daunting. For parents, especially mum, the prospect of spending the day
apart from the little person you have enjoyed so much time with over the last
few years wrenches at us from within. Unfortunately, without education, the
world as it is would cease to be, and it is a necessary part of growing up and
of life; a rite of passage if you like.
How can
you beat those first day nerves for both of you?
For mum and dad:
Make a plan for how you will fill
your time
Spending
a day sat alone looking at a toy box or all the pretty pictures and creations
your child has made you will only make you feel worse about your little one
being absent, so you have to make a plan. If, like so many of us, you rarely
get time to make your house immaculately tidy, today is the day! You may only
have a half day initially, but it is amazing what you can get done. When was
the last time you sat and read a book while drinking a hot cup of tea or
coffee? Do it! Enjoy the time you have for yourself.
It’s OK to cry…
Your
baby is no longer the needy little infant who suckled at the breast, relying on
you for their sole nutrition any more, and it is a lot for you to deal with. It
is absolutely fine to shed a few tears, whether publicly or privately. Most
parents will share your sentiments and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Try not
to appear too upset in front of your child though!
For you all:
Take advantage of previews and tours
When
your child’s school offers you a look around, take it. Talk to the teachers,
look around the classroom, and make sure you are comfortable with the place
your child will be spending a large part of their time from now on. Go together
with your child so you can talk about it afterwards and help you both prepare
for the big day.
For your little one:
Make a big deal of preparing for
school
Get them
a new lunchbox, buy a nice pencil case, and tell them how fabulous their
uniform looks when they try it on. Let them go for a walk in their new school
shoes, perhaps practicing the school run. Build up excitement for the big day
so they are looking forward, rather than looking toward school with fear and
anxiety.
Talk about the fun they will have…
…and
listen to their questions. Some children want to know what they might learn and
do to help them relax, while others may ask questions to settle their nerves
and get reassurance that all will be well.
You
should try and make school work out to be a positive thing for the whole
family. A child should look forward to attending, and you should make the most
of your time (or the cheaper childcare if your little one was previously with a
nanny or childminder – we all know how expensive it can be).
About the Author
This article was written on behalf of Galt Toys. Galt Toys have been
manufacturing toys for over 175 years, and know a thing or two about toys…and
having fun!
