Posted on September 29, 2011 by Kathryn

For lots of kids, back to school is part of the norm. But for little Johnny, this is his first day at Kindergarten. You have taken him shopping for new cloths, backpack, lunch box and some school supplies. He seems excited to have all the “new cool stuff”, yet he hesitates when you ask him if he is excited about going to school.

What can you do to ease little Johnny’s anxiety?

Here are 10 tips on how you can help Little Johnny;

Tip Number 1: Check your own stress level: this can be an emotional day for many a Mom and Dad. It is very important to ease your own stress; kids will pick up on your anxiety.

Tip Number 2: If at all possible, take the day off from work: kids grow up fast and being part of this milestone is important for you and little Johnny. Johnny will be more comfortable with his new adventure to have you a part of it.

Tip Number 3: Read books about starting school: there are lots of books out there about starting school. Plan to read a book together, in your special reading spot. This will be comforting for little Johnny and he can gain a better understanding of what school will be like.

Tip Number 4: Respond with patience and understanding: little Johnny may cry and ask to go home with you. Remember, he is totally outside his comfort zone and needs reassurance that he will have fun.

Tip Number 5: Pick the magic time to leave: finding the perfect time to leave isn’t easy. Reassure Johnny that you are coming back and that he will have tons of fun while you are away. Make a quick good-bye; lingering will only make the next morning even harder for both Johnny and you.

Tip Number 6: Keep it simple: Yes, this is a major milestone but making “too big” a deal out of this adventure may cause more stress on little Johnny than you intend.

Tip Number 7: Be active in your child’s school life: arrange for both of you to meet the teacher or tour the school before that first day. Tape a family picture to the inside of Johnny’s lunchbox lid. Have a copy of the class schedule so you will feel connected to your child’s school life. Volunteer to be a teachers aid for a day once or twice a month.

Tip Number 8: Stay in touch with Johnny’s teacher: meet with Johnny’s teacher frequently. Offer your email address and phone number, so that she can communicate with you easily if any problems arise.

Tip Number 9: Understand what Johnny is afraid of: if he seems overly afraid, talk with little Johnny. Talk with his teacher too. Teachers are a great resource on what kinds of problems children have and together, you can alleviate any of Johnny’s fears.

Tip Number 10: Send “Mr. Snuggles” along: of course you need to check with Johnny’s teacher first, then send along a favorite stuffy or blanket. Just having a little comfort from home will help to ease his anxiety and he will not feel so alone.

The first day of kindergarten will be fantastic! Remember, it takes time to adjust to new surroundings, new routine and even new friends. Give little Johnny some time, be active in his new adventure and before too long; he will be asking to go to school, even on Saturdays!

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