It's common for children to feel nervous starting school. Below are some tools and reminders to support your family through the transition. We can't wait to welcome you on campus!
Conversation Starters:
What helped Llama Llama feel better at school?
When have you missed someone, what did it feel like?
What can we do when we miss eachother during the day?
Conversation Starters:
Who are you connected to with your invisible string?
What helps you feel close to people you love, even when they're far away?
👋 Make a fun goodbye ritual: (e.g. See ya later alligator! After while crocodile! or a fun secret handshale)
🏫 Do a practice run: Get up and start your day like you were going to school. Pack up your things, and drive on campus. Show your child the drop off lane and where they will get out. Visualizing the route will help them prepare for the real thing.
📚Books to read: LLama Llama Misses Mama, The Kissing Hand, The Invisible String
⌚Stick to predictable routines: Set and stick to a morning, daytime, evening, and bedtime routine as much as possible to get students ready for the school year.
🥳Show your excitement: Our body experiences anxiety/nerves the same way. Instead of saying "I'm really going to miss you while you're at school!" Try this: "I can't wait to hear about the fun things you do in class!"
📷Pack a Picture: Send a family photo that can be included in your child's classroom as a reminder of their loved ones. They can keep it in their backpack, folder, or pencil box. Best to consult with teacher so it doesn't become a distraction!
♥️Validate feelings: If your child becomes overwhelmed or expressed sadness/worry, encourage them to name their feeling and validate it, let them know that it's okay to feel that way. Remind them that they can cope with the worry, they can do hard things! Redirect to activities they can do if they feel worried at school, like picturing a positive memory. If a student struggles in class, having a go to visual calm space is a great way to feel better quickly.
👋Model a positive goodbye: Give your child a big confident smile, tell them you can't wait to hear about their day and then head out. Your child will pick up on your positive energy!
Remember: Change can be scary and separation fears are totally normal. Your child may take time to adjust to the new routine, but you can TRUST that your child is LOVED and CARED for at school. We are in this together!