The First Few Days of School

The first few days of school are a big adjustment for everyone. There are new routines, or jumping back into old ones, maybe new schools, new teachers, new friends. Maybe your child is taking a bus, walking or being dropped off for the first time. Maybe it's not the first time but everyone is still a little nervous. It happens, even for teachers, every year!

The first week or so of school is a lot of learning routines, getting to know teachers, classmates and expectations and figuring out how to get everyone up, dressed and out of the house on time. As hectic and busy as it may seem, there are a few things you can do to help ease the transition.

1. Practice! Practice what the morning routine will look like. Think of it like a dress rehearsal before a performance. You can work out any challenges the day or week before as needed and everyone will feel better.

2. Visit your child's classroom if possible! It will comfort them to know where to go on that first day, but remind them that there will be teachers and staff ready to help if they need.

3. Create a visual schedule for your child to follow so they know what to expect in the morning routine. See an example in our fall printables section! If you need one personalized, please send us an email.

4. Make it fun- I have heard of families doing a run through of the morning routine and then going out for breakfast or lunch afterward, going to the park, or going shopping for those last few school supplies after.

5. Breathe. It will all be fine. They will get to school and settle in, and it will take a few days at least. Often, it takes the first two weeks to get into a good routine, so have patience with yourself and your children.

Offer a big hug, words of encouragement, or space if they need it at the end of the day. Remember, they have been sitting, listening, learning all day long after a long break and may "crash" when they get home. You might see big emotions, tantrums or exhaustion so make sure to be there for whatever it is they need from you during this time. You know your little one best!