Although most children are excited at the prospect of starting school, some students have a difficult time making the adjustment and can develop anxiety related to their school experience. For some of the youngest learners, this is the first time they have been without their parent, guardian, or trusted caregiver for an extended period of time. For others, they have not spent much time in large groups. Some kindergarteners become overwhelmed at trying to learn all the new rules and routines of their classroom. Here are some things you can do to help ease your kindergartener’s transition:
Establish a routine
Children thrive and exhibit less anxiety when things are predictable. You could pack lunches and backpacks the night before to decrease stress in the mornings. Bedtime should be consistent. If your child has been staying up later in the summer, begin transitioning back to an earlier bedtime at least one week in advance to allow your child’s internal clock to readjust. Make sure your child’s wake up time ensures enough time to get ready without rushing and to eat a healthy breakfast.
Visit the school
Most schools have a night your child can visit their classroom and meet their teacher. Giving your child some familiarity with their new school environment can help decrease first day jitters.
Keep transportation consistent
Although many parents/guardians enjoy taking their child to school on the first day, consider your child’s needs and how he/she may respond. Some children need to practice getting on the bus if that will be their regular transportation mode and can become confused if a parent takes them to school on the first day and then they take the bus the next.
Consider using a “transition object”
A transition object is a small reminder from home that the child can keep in their pocket or backpack. Transition objects can be a source of comfort for the child and can help decrease some of their school related anxiety. Some examples include: a picture of their family, a small stuffed animal, or their favorite toy. It is important to communicate with your child’s teacher about what your child is allowed to bring to school, as toys can often be distracting, even when meant to be a transition object.
Create a goodbye ritual
Coming up with a fun, unique way to say goodbye can sometimes reduce a child’s separation anxiety. You could have a special wave or handshake or use a particular phrase, such as, “See you later, alligator.”
Try to focus on the positive
Ask your child what toys they might like to play with that day, what they are looking forward to playing at recess, and something interesting they learned. Getting your child to focus on the positive aspects of their school experience can help improve their attitude and decrease stress.
Help them make friends
Consider having a play date and allowing your child to meet other children from their class prior to the first day of school. Having some familiar faces in the classroom can help reduce anxiety.
Read books about school
Reading books about school can help your child begin to understand their school experience. Some of my favorites are: The Night Before Kindergarten, The Kissing Hand, Llama Llama Misses Mama, David Goes to School, Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes, and First Day Jitters.
Talk to the teacher
If you have concerns about how your child is adjusting to their new school routine, talk to your child’s teacher. He or she will likely have some helpful suggestions for both you and your child to try.
Starting school can be a scary prospect for some children. Although most children quickly adapt to this major life event, some have a hard time making the adjustment and need additional support.
If you have any concerns about how your child is adjusting to kindergarten, consider calling the Family Health Clinic and asking to speak with one of our behavioral health providers. We would be happy to assist you!
Download our Kindergarten Handbook
One of our recent student interns from Purdue University put together a handbook that contains helpful resources for the parents of kindergarteners. Click here to download it!
