6 tips how to survive first days in kindergarten

Let us not kid ourselves, kindergarten is a big deal for parents and children alike. Often, it’s the first time a child has been away from home or a caregiver for the majority of the day, so there’s bound to be some separation anxiety for everyone. The change in routine, socialization, academic expectations, and newfound independence can be overwhelming at first. I thought I could offer some basic advice based on my personal experience and advise from professionals.

I Can’t Let My Baby Go!

You may be the one crying in the parking lot while your little one is hamming it up with his new classmates. Suddenly, you question if he is really ready or whether he will be able to use the restroom by himself or remember to drink all his milk. The nightmare scenarios can be overwhelming.
Find out if your teacher prefers texting, email, or phone calls. This will help you keep in touch and lower your anxiety ( crying is still there for you )

Don’t Leave Me!

Some children are so excited the night before kindergarten they can’t sleep, while other children may be tearful and clingy the first few days or even weeks. The crying usually doesn’t last long are the experiences of majority of teachers. Your child may hold on tight and demand to go home, but hold strong; this too shall pass. Keep in mind that teachers have been trained to deal with the specific situations and they will handle it far better than us, emotional parents who feel guilty for leaving their offfsprings. Make a ritual or a special way of saying goodbye and then leave immediately .Don't linger , don't make funny faces in the window , do not wave for 15 minutes, saying papa million times. You are not helping. 

 

 My Child is Starving!

 

You may notice your child is starving when she gets home. Eating at school is dictated by a strict schedule, but she’s used to eating snacks and meals at her own pace at home. In addition, lunchtime may be too early after breakfast and she’s not hungry yet, or too late and she had a snack in class.

Your child may not feel comfortable with eating in a new atmosphere right away. Do not worry – I learned, children eat when they are hungry. No mater what. The professionals advise to include your child into process of packing his /her own lunchbox. Also add a note or a smiley or a heart anything really - when they open the box they will know you are thinking about them . A snack after the kindergarten is always a good choice and at the beginning some treat , whatever you see fit.

Where’s My Blankie?

We , parents ,tend to put a lot of emphasis on referring to our children as being 'big kids ' before a child enters kindergarten. Good intentions, but they may backfire in some children and cause them to regress. Parents may notice a renewed interest in a blankie, stuffed bear, or a return to thumb-sucking. They might want to be 'babied' more – this is a phase , and it has to be treated with kindness.

What Happened to My Sweet Baby?

Be warned, your previously sweet angel may come home exceptionally cranky in the first few weeks. Kindergarteners are thrust into a new schedule with academic and social interactions that often take them out of their comfort zone. It is possible that they “use up” all their good behaviour at school and just feel they do not have to 'behave ' any more when they see their parents. 

 

It’s Going to Be Fine

Take advantage of the back-to-school open houses. Visit the classroom and take a few minutes to speak with the teacher. Encourage your child to ask his teacher questions. Visit the bathroom and make sure your child knows how to close the bathroom door, flush the toilet and wash his hands. Take a peek at the cafeteria and playground. Show him where the drop-off and pick-up spots are .Make sure he knows how to fasten his buttons and zip up a coat. If he can’t tie his shoes yet, consider getting Velcro ones. Your child may have a few bumps along the way at first, but after the first few weeks, he will settle into his new routine and will look forward to school.

Tell us if this helped .If you have more advice or ideas feel free to comment, I am sure Moms will appreciate it a lot.

Tell us about your experiences and how your first days in Kindergarten went. We want to hear from you!

With love

Dragonello