Today is the official start of new school year at Jubilee JumpStart!
This is an exciting time full of surprises and new friends. Changes can also present challenges, however, so we’ve rounded up some easy ways to help your child adjust to their new routine and learning environment.
Establish a routine
A regular arrival time and attendance schedule will help your child know what to expect. You can also adjust part of your home schedule to match your child's classroom. If your child's class eats lunch at 11am and naps at 12pm, for example, you can match that schedule at home so that your child can get used to eating and napping at similar times in school and out.
Communicate with your child’s teacher
What special interests delight your child? Do they have a special ritual that comforts them when they’re nervous? A song that helps them sleep? Does your family refer to certain needs in a different language or a using a special word (for example, when they ask for water or feel pain)? Your child’s teacher wants to know the best way to connect with them and support their needs, so please share your stories and advice!
Check in with your child
Talk with your toddler or preschool child about what they experience during this time: what surprised them, what made them nervous, which foods they tried, and who they met. This will help them understand and express their feelings, let you provide reassurance, and build their communication skills at the same time.
Bring a reminder from home
A family photo for the classroom wall can comfort infants and young children feeling separation anxiety. Your child’s teacher can ask about family members in the photo and remind them that you are returning for them in the afternoon. If your child has a favorite toy or cuddly that they sleep with, discuss with your teacher whether it makes sense for your child to bring it with them during their transition period. We do need to ensure that all classroom items are sanitized, and don’t want to risk your child’s priceless comfort object getting lost or damaged, but your teacher can work with you on the options in your particular case.
Transitions are sometimes hardest on the parents, so remember to leave space for your own feelings and needs as well. You’re doing great!
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