There is no doubt about it, the first day of Kindergarten can be an emotional time for parents, caregivers, and grown-ups. Seeing your little one independent and going off on their own can be overwhelming. It is equally as overwhelming for your little one, but such a special and exciting time for them. Although they may seem small, their independence blossoms once they start school. You have prepared your child so much. I have just a few extra ways you and your child can be ready for the first day of Kindergarten!
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1. Independent Lunch Practice
Students usually have a limited amount of time for lunch (approximately 20 minutes). This may seem short, but coming from the perspective of someone who has been in the lunchroom…any longer and the lunchroom turns into a playground. If your child is bringing lunch from home you can practice “lunch time” during the days and weeks leading up to the first day of kindergarten. Pack their lunch bag just as you would for school. When it is time for lunch at home, set a 20-minute timer and hand them their lunch bag. Have them practice opening the lunch bag, opening their items, and eating independently before time is up. If they need something, have them raise their hand for you and practice waiting patiently (it may seem silly but it is practical).
Also, talk to them and have conversations with them since they will need to manage their time while they are eating. Continue doing this a few times on the days leading up to it. You can then practice with them how to open their containers and bags and what to do if they are full or do not want something. You will also see what they struggle with opening. Maybe you can get a different container or if they are good with scissors, pack a child friendly pair of scissors so they can open those chip bags without assistance.
2. Make Something Special for the First Day
Make something with your child that they can wear when they miss you on their first day of kindergarten (and however long they would like to). You can make a beaded friendship bracelet (the kits are very popular now with all of the summer concerts). You can find one on Amazon like this one I have linked!
3. Read The Kissing Hand
The Kissing Hand is a great story to read with children before school starts (even before camp or a sleepover at their grandparents’ house). It will give your child reassurance when they feel scared or missing you on the first day of kindergarten. They will remember they can carry your love with them always.
4. Have Something Fun Planned for When Your Child Gets Home
Plan something they can look forward to when they get home from the first day of kindergarten. You don’t have to go crazy because they will be exhausted, but it will give you a chance for them to talk about their day. It can be an at-home movie night (a short movie so they get enough sleep), ordering pizza, going out for ice cream, or playing their favorite game.
5. Use the Kiss and Go Method on the First Day of Kindergarten
The most important thing to remember is to “never let them see you cry” on the first day of kindergarten. Children pick up on others’ emotions, especially those of adults. If they sense that you are sad, scared, or worried they are going to feel the same. Cry in privacy before or after, but make sure when you drop them off it is happy. When you drop off your child, whether in the car or walking up just “kiss and go”. Give them a kiss and a hug, wish them luck, take a picture with their teacher, and send them on their way. A kiss and go and a lot of smiles will make their entry into school so much smoother.
Once they go inside, leave and take care of yourself. Get yourself a coffee, a manicure, read a book, go for a run, or go to work. You don’t need to hover by the school and look in the windows. Everything will be okay! Remember, trust your school and your child’s teacher. Trust everything you have taught your child and prepared them for. Enjoy this moment!