This is a paid collaboration.
With a new academic term just a few weeks away in the United Kingdom, many youngsters are getting ready for their first day of school. This is both an exciting and terrifying time for little ones and preparation is absolutely crucial. I have teamed up with a private school in Hertfordshire to offer some advice.
Visit the School
Try your best to visit the school a few times before the start of term, even if you can’t go inside, just to help familiarise your child with some of their new surroundings and the journey. Some schools offer taster days where new pupils can spend some time at the school before all of the other children start, which is always a great idea because it allows youngsters to meet their new peers and teachers and get used to the classroom.
Practise Getting Ready
Practise the morning routine in the run up to the first day so that your child knows what to expect. Set your alarm for the time you would set it during the term and teach your child how to put on their new uniform. This will make the experience feel less intimidating when its an actual necessity. You should also rehearse self-help skills, like doing up shoes, washing hands etc, so that they feel more confident when they have to go it alone.
Go Shopping Together
Take your child to the shops with you when you decide the time is right to buy all of their new books, clothing, and stationery. This will help them feel more involved and also instil a sense of excitement in them, as they’ll be able to pick some things out and look forward to using them.
Talk, Talk, Talk
Chat to your child on a regular basis about their first day of school and use positive, enthusiastic terminology. For example, you could chat about how exciting it will be for them to make new friends that they can invite round to play. You should also ask them if there’s anything they’re worrying about and ease their concerns where possible.
