Off to a Success Start- Preparing Your Child for School

By Karri Newman, Parent Educator, Parents as Teachers/Four Oaks

The first day of school is an important step in your child’s life. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in starting children off in a positive way. This may be a time that creates anxiety for your child, so begin early when talking about starting school. Here are some ideas to help prepare your child.

Reading books is an excellent way to alleviate some anxiety. To help with the transition, look for the many books about school and other related issues. Reading can start the discussion about the different aspects of school that your child may experience. It is important not to focus too much on fun and playtime as children may be disappointed to find out that school also includes structured learning.

Prior to starting, take your child to visit the school and his or her teacher. This helps children become comfortable before the first school day when it is more crowded. Talk about the daily schedule and answer your child’s questions. Explain school activities that your child may not have experienced yet, like a lunch line.

Make a few trips with your child to the school – going the same way – so your child will become familiar with the route he or she will take to get to school. In addition, make transportation arrangements clear, so your child knows exactly how to get to and from school each day.

Set aside time to talk with your child every day. Let the child decide what to talk about, but you may need to start the conversation with a specific question, such as “How did you like playing outside?”

Create a daily schedule for your child that includes regular homework time and free time. It is important for a parent to be available during both times. This way, if your child has a question or just wants to tell you something, you will be there. Your child loves to have your attention, and you can show how much you value your child and his or her thoughts.

Remember the more interested you are in your child’s day at school, the more excited overall your child will be about school. Children love it when their parents are involved in their school activities. Talk to the teacher and school staff to see what volunteer opportunities are available.

The early years are a great time to help children get a good start in school. Early education lasts a lifetime. To learn more about parent support services, call Four Oaks at (563) 557-3100.

Information is from a parent handout, “When Your Child Starts School,” Copyright 2002, Parents as Teachers National Center, Inc.