For Parents: Back to School!

Many parents can experience nervousness about sending their child to a new school, or are unsure what they- and their child- can expect as they move on to another grade. If you (or your parent) falls into this category, you’re not alone!​ 

​Below are some tips from parents who've been through it, that may help!

“As nerve-wracking as it may be for parents and/or child to send your kid off to a new place for the first time, just remember that it is unlikely that this is the first time that the school, daycare, or institution is welcoming a new face. If you’ve done your research, you’re going to be leaving your child in the hands of well qualified individuals who likely have a seamless process in transitioning new children into a new school year/ program. As a parent, take a deep breath, kiss your kid goodbye, and really try to appreciate the quiet adult time you’ll have (whether it be at work, school, or home) while your kids are off socializing.”
– Mrs. W., mother of 2

“Build and develop a relationship with your child’s teacher(s). Get to know, understand, and have comfort in the person or people who are the experts and are charged with educating your child. Once you have established an open line of communication, trust and development can thrive, for the student and the parent.”
– Mr. R., father of 1 

“Try to tour wherever you’re sending your child and meet the people who will be working with them, PRIOR to beginning their first day. It will be nice for the child and for you to have a familiar face and sense of the atmosphere, come that first day of school…when those nerves really start to act up!”
– Mrs. D, mother of 3

“In the days before school starts, help your child do some “mental walk-throughs” of the first day of school. This way, when the first day rolls around, your child will have already had an opportunity to mentally rehearse what the experience will be like!”
– Mrs. K., mother of 5

“…Reassure your student that nerves are normal, and that there are many other students who will be having the same thoughts and feelings on the first day of school. This will be the first day for a lot of the kids!”
– Anonymous
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“The night before, make sure everything is ready for the morning. For my kids, that means picking our clothes, having their backpacks by the door, and 2 of them shower the night before.”
– Anonymous

“Practice your morning routine before the actual first day, so you can start the day by being on time and not in panic mode!” 
– Mrs. F, mother of 3