Kids & Company Blog

5 Tips for a More Confident Start Back to School

Starting a new school year brings excitement and anticipation, but it can also cause some nervousness, especially for little ones transitioning to a new classroom or starting school for the first time. At Kids & Company, we understand these mixed emotions and are here to help make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and your child. Here are some tips to help your little one feel confident and excited about the new school year:

Begin Preparations Early by Re-establishing Routines

The earlier you start preparing your child for the upcoming school year, the better. Here’s how to get started. Re-establish Routines: Summer often comes with a relaxed schedule, but getting back into regular meal and bedtime routines can help your child feel more secure as the first day of school approaches.

Incorporate Back-to-School Books

Reading stories about school can make the idea of starting a new school year more relatable and less intimidating. Look for stories featuring relatable characters navigating the first-day jitters, making new friends, and tackling new challenges. Whether it’s a picture book for younger students or a chapter book for older kids, these kinds of books can help spark conversations about their own experiences and expectations. Additionally, integrating books into your preschool routine can set a positive tone for the year ahead, making the shift from vacation mode to study mode a bit smoother

Memory Jar:

Have your child write down their favourite summer memories and place them in a jar. On the first day of school, review the memories together and talk about the exciting new experiences ahead.

 Encourage Independence 

Encouraging children to take charge of their school routines can build their confidence and set them up for success. Start by letting them pick out their own clothes or pack their school bag in the weeks and days leading up to school. Small tasks like these not only make them feel grown-up but also teach valuable skills. Remember, independence isn’t about doing everything on their own but about feeling empowered to take initiative. Celebrate their small victories and provide gentle guidance when needed. With a little encouragement, your child will not only excel in school but also grow into a confident, self-reliant individual.

Build a Positive Connection with the School

A child’s excitement for the new school year can sometimes come with a bit of anxiety. You can help ease these feelings by maintaining a positive attitude and talking with your child about all the fun and learning they’ll experience. Children are sensitive to their parents' emotions, so your enthusiasm can help soothe their nerves.

Another important step is to establish communication with your child’s school and teachers before the first day. Understanding how the school will support your child through this transition will give you peace of mind, which you can pass on to your child. At Kids & Company, we encourage families to visit their new classrooms and meet the teachers beforehand, which can make the new environment feel more familiar and less daunting. We have a short video here that can be helpful for you.

We’ve partnered with MarcoPolo Learning to offer our pre-k families a complimentary subscription to their MarcPolo For Families app! Try MarcoPolo today https://bit.ly/MPFF. 

Whether your child is starting school for the first time or moving up to a new classroom, approaching this transition with joy and excitement will help them embrace the change with confidence. Remember, every transition is a new opportunity for growth and discovery.

Posted on: Friday August 16th, 2024

Posted by: Kids & Company