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It is common for children to have anxieties about the first day of school. I have seen that children are fearful of the unknown; they wonder what they will be expected to know, what they will do if they don't know where the bathroom and what they will do if they don't have any friends. Adequately preparing kids for school is something you can do as a parent to help relieve first day anxieties
 | Explain that school is new, but nothing to be
afraid of. |
Listen and seek to understand
Try to understand what your kids expect from school and what they may be afraid of. By understanding what your child thinks of school you may easily be able to help them put fears aside. Talking about school before they attend helps prepare them for the transition. Act excited about school and tell them how much fun they are going to have.
Visit school first
Take kids to visit school before they start attending. Demonstrate the positive aspects of school to them. Ask the kids in the classroom to tell your child what to expect on the first day of school. Show them the learning and crafts they will get to do and the friends they will be able to make.
Combat separation anxiety
Many children suffer from separation anxiety when they are dropped off at school. Combat their fear by acknowledging their feelings and helping them to understand them. Never tell your child that their feelings aren't valid. Explain that school is new, but nothing to be afraid of. Do not stay at school with your children, explain that you will be together again after school. It is important not to be late to pick them up so they do not feel forgotten at the end of the day. Give your child transitional objects to help them get through the day such as notes to open at school in their lunchbox and coat pocket.
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