I do realise that children are only just breaking up from school, but as parents, we know that the holidays will go by in a flash – then it’s either “back to school” or “time to start big school”, both of which can cause anxiety for your children – so please do spend some time over these coming holiday weeks to prepare them.
Try to talk to your child regarding his feelings about the first day of school, and make sure that you don’t dismiss his emotions.
All too often we start our sentences with “Oh don’t be silly”…. But if your child tells you they’re scared, it can be better to address the anxiety instead, and say something along the lines of “Of course you’re nervous – and I bet that every boy and girl starting big school is feeling exactly the same.” If your child knows that he is not alone, the chances are that he will relate to his classmates better. Teach him that change is a good thing and make everything an exciting adventure – meeting new friends, learning new things, running round the playground, etc.
Start the adventure together with a special “day out”, and head out together for places such as your local Tesco and Sainsbury for school supplies. First let your child pick out his own lunchbox/backpack, which will get him excited for the first day of school. Does he / she like Ben 10, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, or Spiderman? Or Pepa and George Pig, Hello Kitty, or Disney Princesses? Really it doesn’t matter – let them choose whatever makes them happy.
Then on to WH Smith or any stationery store for colours, pencils, pencil case, rubbers – whatever is recommended by the school. Perhaps a trip to John Lewis or the school outfitters for a uniform fitting, depending on where the child’s school uniform comes from, and then make sure that you end your day out together with a special treat like ice cream.
Associating positive elements with the idea of school will help for a smooth transition.
Summertime and holidays can often mean a lack of schedule, and the children most likely going to bed later and sleep late in the mornings.
If the children’s bodies are not accustomed to the normal school / sleep schedule, they will be exhausted and cranky the first week of Term, which is not the best or correct way for them to start things off.
Try to give your children a week before Term starts where they are already in school timetable mode, so that the first day of Term is not a shock to them.
I hope that you have found this blog informative and interesting.
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I look forward to speaking to you soon,
Norma Lewis
Norma Lewis Nannies
www.normalewisnannies.co.uk