The first day of school, or even pre-school (now Grade R) is a big event for a small person, even one who has had previous experience of play groups.
Although children may be excited, they face an environment that's very different from what they are used to at home, or even in pre-school.
Here are some tips to make the transition easier, given to us by Kuil's River pre-school teacher Erica Bezuidenhout; head of Herschel Pre-Primary, Cindy Summer and Goodwood psychologist Bettie Rall.
BEFORE THE BIG DAY
- Read books from the library about going to school.
- Begin to establish routines such as earlier bedtimes, making lunches or setting out clothes the night before. Allow children to help with these tasks to reinforce skills needed for starting school.
- Arrange for your child to play with someone in the new class. A familiar playmate in class raises the comfort level.
- Visit the school ahead of time and introduce yourself and your child to the principal, teachers and librarian. Explore the child's classroom and other important areas. Many schools arrange a visit at the end of the previous term.
- Have a positive attitude yourself. If you are enthusiastic, you send the message that education is important and valuable. Paint an exciting picture of school.
- Be careful not to make the child scared of the teacher: many parents will say: "Just wait until your teacher sorts you out". Empower them, don't scare them.
- Explain new concepts such as breaks, principals, extra-murals, athletics, choirs. It's important that they understand what they're hearing on the intercom.
- Be excited and encourage the enthusiasm and curiosity of your young child.
- Buy new clothes, make a fuss, take pictures. Involve them in preparations.
- Have positive expectations and make positive affirmations - parents don't realise these become the child's beliefs.
- Familiarise children with aftercare.
ON THE DAY
- Once you've said goodbye, hand over to the teacher and walk away. Prolonged goodbyes and repeated "last kisses" make a child anxious.
- Don't spend too much time at the school. If your child is anxious, spend a few minutes doing a puzzle or some activity with her, give her five minutes to settle, and leave.
- Explain to the child what is going to happen. Set ground rules beforehand: "We are going to school, and at 10 past eight I'll leave. If you cry, I will be sad, but I'm still going to leave."
- If your child is not coping with the separation, establish a connection with the teacher and ask her to contact you when the child has settled down. That way you don't spend a whole day worrying.
- With very small children starting pre-school, you need to be flexible, and may need to spend more time helping them settle, so make sure you have the time. Take your cue from the teacher.
- Be confident of your child's abilities, don't expect the worst. Just as children easily detect anxieties and fears in parents, they will also detect excitement and enthusiasm.