By: Ms. Jennifer
You’re off to great to great places. Today is your first day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!
Dr. Seuss
Preparing for the first day of school always begins before the first day of school. From going to bed on time to shopping for school supplies and new clothes, it can be hard to return to a back-to-school routine after the summer holidays. Here are a few tips to get back in the groove of things:
1-2 weeks before the first day
Talk about school. Build excitement for the first day of school! Ask questions like: What do you think you will do on your first day? What’s the first thing you will do on the playground on your First Day? These questions will turn a scary unknown into a fun, imaginative moment.
1-2 weeks before the first day
A bedtime routine. This will help your child adjust to going to bed early and waking up early. Create a habit of turning off electronics before bed to relax one’s mind.
1 week before the first day
Shop for school supplies! Shopping together for a special treat or new outfit will add to the excitement of going to school. Don’t worry about expensive, trendy items. Even a “new-to-you” item that has been repurposed or reused will have meaning when it is intended to celebrate the first day of school.
2 days before the first day
Practice and more practice! Learning how to get ready each morning for school takes practice. Go through the steps of getting up, dressing independently, preparing and eating breakfast, and leaving home. This is also a good opportunity to incorporate practical life skills like dressing, grooming, and hand washing. This will support your little one’s confidence when they have to utilize these skills at school.
1 day before the First day
Prepare all needed materials for the next day the night before. This will help make the morning go smoothly and encourage independence and personal responsibility. Also, try inviting your little one in the planning process to take pride in their new routine. For example, ask: “What will you need for school tomorrow?”
Preparing for the first day of school can be a challenging and emotional journey, but it can also be a way to bond and make new memories with your little one.