For parents, the first day of kindergarten is a serious milestone akin to potty training or learning to walk. Entry into formal education means that the babies and toddlers that have been completely dependant on us for years are ready to go out into the world. Kids who enter kindergarten see an enormous shift in their daily routines, the expectations placed on them by the adults in their lives, and their own desire for independence.
As a result, this day can be a little hard for everyone, so here are some tips that can make it easier for both you and your child.
1. Big People Don’t Cry (Over Kindergarten)
This can be one of the most difficult parts of helping your child’s first day be a positive one. As a parent you’ve undoubtedly noticed how your mood affects that of your child. Mirroring the moods and actions of their parents is a part of how children learn how to react in any given situation. That’s why it’s essential that until your child is in their classroom and ready to learn, you keep it together.
Ideally your child should think that you’re nothing but excited for them to enter school. Once you have delivered them, if you need to go sit in your car and cry over the impossible speed with which they grew up, then do it. Nobody will blame you, and there will probably be three other parents doing the same in the parking lot.
2. Teachers Are Kind, Clever, And In Charge
Kids learn how to treat people the same way they learn how to behave in any given situation: by watching us. As a result, you may want to be extra careful when it comes to how you speak to and about your child’s teacher.
Teachers are professionals who deserve to be treated with respect by students and parents alike. As a parent you already know this. However, your child was not privy to the hours you spent researching full lists of kindergartens in Malaysia, all so you could pick the perfect school for them. If you make an effort to demonstrate the qualities you wish your child to have when interacting with their educator, they are much more likely to have a positive relationship.
3. Classmates Are All Potential Friends
Many children can feel intimidated when they are suddenly surrounded by such a large number of their peers. Parents can help them be bold and friendly by putting their classmates in a positive light. When every classmate is a potential friend, school can be much less scary.
If at all possible, having your child spend time with one or two classmates prior to the first day of school can be a great idea. Entering their classroom with some new friends is much less scary than doing so alone.