- Tip 1: Read the first day of schoolbooks. Reading books together about the first day of school can take some of the anxiety out of the first-day jitters.
- Tip 2: Visit the school if possible before the first day. Take a tour showing your child the classroom, restroom, and playground so they feel familiar with and know what to expect.
- Tip 3: Meet the teacher at orientation meet-and-greet events to introduce your child to their teacher. It can help establish a connection from the beginning.
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Tip 4: Discuss transportation and go through the route together. Whether taking the bus, walking, or someone driving them to school these details will help the child put it all together. 
- Tip 5: Practice going to bed on time, waking up early for school, and getting dressed for school. Start a routine a few weeks before the first day of school.
- Tip 6: Let your child help choose their outfit for the first day. Wearing something they like can boost their confidence and excitement.
- Tip 7: Make a cute lunch for the first day of school. Put a note in your child’s lunchbox. If your child is not reading, draw a picture and put it in your child’s lunchbox. Adding a special treat can also add some extra joy to the day.
- Tip 8: Allow your child to help choose their school supplies. Choosing a cute pack of pencils or lunchbox can create excitement about school!
- Tip 9: Set up play dates with friends that will be in the same class or school.
- Tip 10: Practice social skills if your child is shy or apprehensive about making new friends. Role-play different scenarios with them to help them relax and feel comfortable saying “Hi, what’s your name?” to new friends.
- Tip 11: Talk about emotions by encouraging your child to express any feelings they may have about starting school. Reassure them that it is normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.
- Tip 12: Stay calm and positive. Your attitude matters. Staying calm, positive, and supportive as your child looks to you for reassurance.
On the first day of school. Wake up early to have ample time to get ready without rushing to keep your child calm. Offer words of excitement, encouragement and if possible, accompany your child to school. Be sure to say goodbye with a smile and let them know you will be eagerly waiting to hear all about their day. With support and preparation, the first day of school can be a positive and memorable experience for your child.
**We have included a fun back-to-school activity to print out for the first school day.
Also, take lots of pictures! Post a picture of your child’s first day of school wearing Wee One's Bows using the #weeonesbowsbacktoschool and #weeonesbows.
About the Author:
Marlena has been working as an interventionist for multilingual learners for the past 17 years.
She taught second, third, and fourth grades before assuming this position. In addition to a master's degree in elementary education, she holds a bachelor's degree in early childhood primary education.
She happily resides in Alabama with her family. Her daughter Kenlyn is a Wee One's Ambassador and is featured in this blog.
She taught second, third, and fourth grades before assuming this position. In addition to a master's degree in elementary education, she holds a bachelor's degree in early childhood primary education.
She happily resides in Alabama with her family. Her daughter Kenlyn is a Wee One's Ambassador and is featured in this blog.