The first day of school has been a major milestone that excites both children and their nervous, tearful, but proud parents for generations before this day and age. Since the day cameras entered into circulation, parents have documented the happiness felt on the first day of school for their children.
As with most intimidating new beginnings in life, it is best to simply forge ahead with courage, and do the difficult deed, and once that first day has been conquered, the worst is behind. Let’s look at some simple points to help mothers survive the initial separation while settling the young ones at the same time too.
1. Ease Your Mind by Easing Your Child
Giving your child a routine to rely on, will make daily goodbyes much easier to deal with, for the both of you. Prepare for that first goodbye, by deciding on a ritual that will be performed each morning as you part. It can be a high five, a special squeeze or something unique you can say. Keeping the routine predictable will make it easier psychologically on both parties, especially a little tot. It is best not to sneak away, as this will only cause your child to feel extremely alarmed and abandoned when they suddenly realise that you are gone.
2. Carry a Comfort Item
Many youngsters have soft toys or a special blanket that gives them comfort, even at home. Taking this to school on that first day can go a very long way in helping a small child gain a sense of safety while you are away. A primary school-going child may benefit from this too, but perhaps something age appropriate can be given to the child as a token of your pride. A medallion for a boy or a special hair clip for a girl is just examples. Ensure that the item is in accordance with school rules first!
3. Say Cheese!
Put the biggest and bravest smile onto your own face that you can manage on the first day! Children take their emotional cues from their parents. If you look happy and positive, it will instil greater confidence and trust in the process for the children too. Don’t tug at their clothes or try to straighten their hair at the last minute, as this nervous behaviour may spark an anxious reaction in the child too, or it may be “embarrassing”! Taking that photo that is such a celebrated aspect of the first day of school will help your child to feel that this is good! We want to remember this day! Do snap away!
Most often, these photos we take do not show the nerves, anxieties, worries or the tears involved in a mother releasing her precious child into the arms of the world. This day marks the start of a new era in a youngster’s life, and the beginning of the end of parental dependency, whether it be at day-care, pre-school or starting out in primary school.
Therefore, experiencing anxiety on the first day of school is completely normal for both mother and child. It is a passing sensation that will not linger too long after the first day.
To set your mind at ease, ensure that your little one attends a school you are happy with. Browse our directory to find a school near you, that you can place your child and your confidence in.
Filed under : Pre-Schools