1. Start your routine before school commences
One schedule during summer holidays is often open-ended, with routines pushed by the wayside. Even before school starts, try to get into a rhythm that will be similar to the one that you will be living when school starts. Children love structure and routine, so establishing one early is really important.
2. Get appropriate equipment for school well in advance
Some children know exactly what they want, regarding colour, design, and so on, when it comes to choosing their backpacks, cutlery, towels, and indoor shoes, while others are happy to make it a joint decision with their parents. Please remember that the size of a child’s bag is crucial, as it needs to accommodate a drink bottle, lunch, morning snack, and possibly an afternoon snack, along with cutlery. Some schools have a specific list for parents to refer to regarding what to bring to school; please follow their guidelines.
3. Talk about school
Talking positively about school and sharing stories with your child about when you were in pre-school are great icebreakers before starting school. The transition from being with family and friends to starting school or being back at school is quite challenging for some children.
4. Visit the school if possible and meet the teachers
Becoming familiar with the environment and meeting the teachers is probably the most important part of your preparations before school commences. The summer school programme is often a great way to start as it gives children the opportunity to experience a “day in the life of preschool”, meet friends and teachers, and see their classroom. However, summer holidays are long, and re-orienting children with the physical environment and teachers ahead of time will make the transition much easier.
5. Introducing school activities
To help your child become more familiar with the activities that are part of the school routine, it is recommended to start with meaningful and developmentally appropriate tasks, such as easel painting, hand printing, playdough molding, making shapes, and many more. You can also ask the teachers what they do in the classroom, so that they can provide ideas for you to do at home.
6. Encourage independence
In school, children are encouraged to be independent and take care of themselves and their things. Children love the feeling of “having done something by themselves,” and nurturing this from a young age is so important. Encourage your child to participate in household chores, such as choosing their own clothes, to lay a foundation for these skills.
7. Prepare yourself and your child emotionally for starting/returning to school
Going to school triggers a number of emotions for both parents and children. Often, parents believe that “their child” is the one who will struggle with separation; however, it is often the other way around. All these emotions are totally normal. It’s usually best to make that first day transition quickly so children can move on to their first day of school.
Even if your child cries when you leave, rest assured that preschool teachers have helped many children through this time. They have spent years training and preparing for all kinds of challenges, and they are likely pros at handling this too. Always say goodbye to your child, and you can tell them that you will come and pick them up “after lunchtime” or “after naptime,” reassuring them through something tangible.
Remember, while these steps children take without parents can be scary, going to preschool is one of many stepping stones to them growing into who they are going to be.
8. Always have fun and communicate
It is so important for children to experience going to school as a fun part of their day. Communicating with your child and his/her teachers so that you know what is going on at school is a vital link between you and your child. Showing an interest in what he/she is learning about keeps the connection alive.
