Starting school for the first time is a huge milestone in your child's life. It can be hard transition on both the parents and the child. There are a few things that you can do to help make that transition just a little bit easier. The easiest and something you are already doing: read with them!
Reading books related to starting school will introduce new vocabulary. Even if they have heard these words before it will be the first time that they will hear them related to their own school journey. The more you read and talk together about starting school the better prepared they will be on their first day. A better prepared child leads to feel more in control of a situation that's completely new to them.
Additionally, books that address separation anxiety in children are a great resource for the first day of school. There will likely be nerves and strong emotions about being away from you so by reading these types of books together you can come up with a plan for what that will look like. While you read, reassure them that even though you drop them off, you will be there to pick them up as well. Talk together about what they can do at school when they miss you and even talk about what you will do when YOU miss them. Giving your child the peace of mind that just because you're not there doesn't mean you're not with them in some way will make any first day jitters that much less.
The following books are great suggestions for reading to your child in the weeks leading up to the first day of school:
1. Bye Bye Time by Elizabeth Verdick
A great book for a younger child that not only talks about saying goodbye, but also models what the child can do if they are feeling sad about that separation.
2. Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney
This not only has great visuals of a what to expect on a typical school day, which will be a great conversation starter, it also addresses separation anxiety and nerves surrounding the first day of school.
3. The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
ONE OF MY FAVORITES! I love this book for so many reasons, but one of them is that it gives a great idea to implement in your morning routine. My son and I used this book and then came up with our own special little gesture that was just for him and me. It made the pull on my heart at drop off feel a little more at ease.
4. Oh My Baby, Little One by Kathi Appelt
This book is timeless. I just love how it depicts the relationship. Another great one for addressing any nervousness about leaving you.
5. The Night Before Preschool by Natasha Wing
This is part of a series that also includes The Night Before Kindergarten. It demonstrates getting ready for school -- a great conversation piece!
6. Time for School, Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
If your child loves The Little Blue Truck series, you will want to get this book! While it doesn't necessarily talk about the routines of school or address any separation anxiety that may arise, it talks about one of the funnest aspects of starting school: Making Friends! This is a great one to use as a conversation starter about all of the good things to look forward to at school.
7. Spot Goes to School by Eric Hill
Another great series! This one is great if your child loves lift the flap books. It depicts a few different activities that your child may participate in while at school. I particularly like this one for a younger child that may be starting daycare.
8. Mae's First Day of School by Kate Berube
This a great book for older toddlers or to use as an illustrated conversation piece with younger ones. It is an excellent book to let your child know they are not the only one who may be nervous to start school. As a former educator, I really appreciate this book and the perspective it gives.
Just make sure that as you are reading it, you reassure your child that with you their feelings will always be validated.
9. The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
I can't even begin to say all the ways I love this book. I have used it with students in all different scenarios and situations, but it is another great one for starting school. If you are reading it with a child ages 1-4, you may want to just discuss the concept in the simplest ways, or even bring out a string as you read. Just as the book does, emphasize that the string can stretch so far and then use this analogy in daily life to make it more concrete. For example, pull out the string if you are leaving them at home to go run errands, etc. Tell them, "I've got my invisible string, I will be with you." and encourage them to "show" you their invisible string as well. With an older child the gorgeous illustrations and heartwarming message are sure to keep their attention.
I hope these books help to make that transition from home to school, just a little bit easier on you and your family!
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