Starting pre-school is a big step for your little one and can be just as significant for you! As experienced parents who have already navigated this transition three times, we’re excited to share our top tips to make this change smooth and enjoyable for both you and your child.
1. Prepare together
Involve your child in the preparation. Go together to choose a schoolbag, lunch box and water bottle or pick out a special outfit for their first day. This way you can look forward to the big day together and get your child excited.
2. Practice the routine and visit the classroom
A few days before school starts, begin practicing the morning routine. Get up at the same as on a school day, do the morning activities, and travel the route to school. Additionally, most schools offer your child the opportunity to attend kindergarten together for half a day to become familiar with the environment before the official start.It’s a great way to speak with the teacher, show your child around, and help them feel more comfortable on their first full day.
3. Pack snacks smartly
Use the Yummy Bag to pack snacks like fruits, nuts, or cookies. This leak-proof bag is perfect for keeping everything in the school bag clean. When picking up a tired child after school, the Yummy Grab&Go is your best friend. Easily attach it to the stroller and that way you have quick snacks on hand to re-energize your child on the way home.
4. The right goodbye
This is and always will be a difficult point where you have to find a good balance. We think it is important that you stay as long as necessary for your child to feel safe without overstaying your welcome. Leaving abruptly can increase anxiety and cause your child to associate school with being left alone. Staying too long creates a delayed and prolonged goodbye. Spend a few extra minutes getting your child used to his new surroundings so that school becomes a safe place for your child where he is cared for, not just a place where he is dropped off. This gentle transition can ease his familiarity with the new environment. Remember here that all beginnings are difficult and trust must be built but your help is indispensable.
5. Gentle reunions
When picking up your child from pre-school, prioritize a warm hug and express how proud you are and how happy you are to see them. Save questions about their day for later at home, once they are rested, bathed, and fed. Bombarding them with questions right after school can be overwhelming, especially after a day full of new experiences. Allowing them time to unwind and process their day at their own pace helps make the transition smoother and keeps the after-school reunion joyful and stress-free.
6. Expect fatigue
The first weeks can be exhausting for your child as they adapt to a new environment and schedule. Don’t underestimate the value of a stroller for the school pick-up. It can be a real lifesaver when your child is too tired to walk. Often their emotions are also released when coming home so outbursts or crying fits are quite normal during this period. Your child has built up stress throughout the day and has had many stimuli around them. Once home in its safe environment, the discharge often follows. Stay calm and make yourself comfortable in the evening with a quick meal and an early bedtime for both you and your child.
7. Stay positive
Children can pick up on parental anxiety, so try to maintain a positive attitude about this new adventure. Share stories about the fun aspects of school, like making new friends and learning new things.
8. Quiet evening
Devise a comforting routine that helps your child settle down properly in the evening. Reading a book together or eating dinner together is an excellent opportunity to connect with your child, discuss their day and give them the emotional support they need to adjust to their new schedule. This loving time can play a crucial role in a smooth transition to school life. Transitioning to pre-school is a major milestone, but with a little preparation and the right attitude, it can be an exciting time of growth and new experiences for your child. Remember that each child adapts differently, so be patient and supportive as they go through this new chapter.
Transitioning to pre-school is a major milestone, but with a little preparation and the right attitude, it can be an exciting time of growth and new experiences for your child. Remember that each child adapts differently, so be patient and supportive as they go through this new chapter.
If you follow these tips, you will prepare your child – and yourself – for a successful start to school. Have fun at school! Follow our social media for more tips,
Lots of love,
Sarah
