There are things parents can do to make the transition to school easier for their children.
“The most important thing is to be talking about it,” said Miceli. “Give kids as much information as you can about what you know things are going to be like.”
Start talking to them about what their days will be like: where they will get dropped off, how they will walk in and sit down, they need to listen to the teacher, they will get breaks, they will meet new people, etc.
Miceli said her own daughter is starting kindergarten and likes to drive by her new school to see where she will be dropped off and picked up.
Jael Ojawaya, a school psychologist for Dayton Public Schools, stresses the importance of having routines for children. “Routines help them to know what to expect,” she said. She especially stressed bedtime routines.
“They need to get enough rest,” said Ojawaya. “There’s a lot to deal with the first day in school.”
Miceli said parents should prepare for the morning the night before as much as they can. “You really want, especially with the first few days of school, to be as calm as possible,” she said. “Give yourself plenty of time in the morning.”
Most schools will have staff waiting to greet students in the morning, and they should have separate entrances for the older children so the new students are not as intimidated. Helping your child find his or her way on the first day is a good idea, said Ojawaya, but after that “just let your child go,” she said.
“Honestly, from my experience, I think it’s harder for the parents,” said Ojawaya.
Being prepared can also help parents to feel more relaxed about the situation.
Ojawaya said parents should complete all the paperwork they’re given from the school, especially emergency contact information, and pay close attention to dates. She also recommended having a plan the first week of school, in case a parent gets called back to the school in the event his or her child is unable to cope.
“Some (students) will need extra support to fit in,” said Ojawaya. School psychologists and counselors will keep an eye out for these kids.
If you are concerned that your child’s needs may be overlooked, Ojawaya recommended contacting the teacher or school psychologist.
Parents should remain calm and positive both before and after school. Occasionally, students may share a negative experience they had in school. “Don’t overreact,” said Ojawaya. “The playground is a rough place.”
Some students will also just feel overwhelmed, which is a normal stage said Miceli. “Be reassuring and supportive.”
“Let the child know that you care,” said Ojawaya. Anxiety should start to decrease after the first week or so, but every child is different.
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