The first day of school is a major milestone—not just for children, but for parents too. Whether your little one is starting preschool, kindergarten, or first grade, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Emotional preparation is just as important as packing supplies or buying new clothes. A confident, calm child is more likely to have a smooth and happy start.
Here’s how to emotionally prepare your child for their first big day at school.
- Talk About What to Expect
Fear often comes from the unknown. Ease your child’s anxiety by explaining what school will be like:
- What the classroom looks like
- Who the teacher is
- What a typical day includes (learning, playtime, lunch, nap, etc.)
- That you’ll be there to pick them up afterward
Keep the conversation age-appropriate, positive, and open-ended. Ask questions like “What do you think school will be like?” or “What are you most excited about?”
Source: https://creatingchange.net.au/6-ways-prepare-anxious-child-school/
- Visit the School Together
If possible, arrange a school tour before the first day. Walk around the classroom, play area, bathroom, and cafeteria. Let your child meet the teacher or other staff. This builds familiarity and reduces nervousness.
🔹 Tip: If an in-person visit isn’t possible, look for photos or videos of the school online or create a pretend “school” day at home.
- Read Books About Starting School
There are many wonderful children’s books designed to help kids prepare emotionally for school. These stories normalize their feelings and offer a chance to discuss any fears or excitement they may have.
Popular choices include:
- “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn
- “First Day Jitters” by Julie Danneberg
- “Wemberly Worried” by Kevin Henkes
Source: https://cupofjo.com/2023/08/21/how-to-prepare-child-for-school-first-day/
- Establish a Consistent Routine Early
Start adjusting bedtime and morning routines at least a week before school begins. Predictability helps children feel secure. Practice packing their bag, eating breakfast, and getting dressed on time.
The goal: make the first morning feel like a familiar rhythm, not a rushed surprise.
- Rehearse Social and Self-Help Skills
Boost your child’s confidence by practicing things they’ll need to do at school, such as:
- Saying their name and greeting others
- Asking for help
- Using the bathroom independently
- Opening lunch containers or using utensils
Even simple skills can build their sense of readiness and independence.
- Stay Calm and Positive Yourself
Children mirror your emotions. If you’re visibly anxious, they may feel there’s something to worry about. Show calm confidence in their ability to adjust. Use reassuring phrases like:
- “You’re going to have so much fun!”
- “I’ll be thinking about you and can’t wait to hear all about it.”
Avoid lingering or showing excessive emotion at drop-off—it can make separation harder for both of you.
- Create a Goodbye Ritual
Having a special goodbye can make parting easier. Try a hug, high-five, secret handshake, or saying, “See you after snack time!” Rituals bring comfort and make transitions feel safer.
- Be Patient After the First Day
Some kids bounce out of school full of stories. Others are quiet, overwhelmed, or even cranky. Give them time to decompress. Instead of asking “How was school?”, try gentle prompts like:
- “Tell me one fun thing you did today.”
- “What was your favorite part of lunch or playtime?”
Offer emotional support, and remember—it can take a few days or even weeks for your child to fully settle in.
