Surviving your little one’s first day at preschool
MABONENG - Sad, nervous, proud, excited and weepy describe the emotions most first-time moms will go through when they drop off their little ones on their first day of school or preschool.
According to whattoexpect.com, a child’s excitement for his or her first day of school may not always translate into a smooth, stress-free transition once the actual day arrives.
The website provides five tips to make the first day of preschool a more manageable experience for the little ones and for parents.
TIP 1: Do not rush through the morning.
No one likes to race through the school morning routine, especially on the first day. By getting everyone up at a reasonable hour, you won’t have to hurry your child as he munches through his morning meal, or risk being late because you had to tame your frazzled tot’s tantrum.
TIP 2: Arrive fashionably early.
This way, your little one can slowly settle in before the real action starts. He or she will also get more face time with the teacher too, which will be tougher to do once all the other children are there to vie for her attention.
TIP 3: Bring a comfort object.
If the preschool allows it, let your child bring along his or her favourite stuffed animal, or whatever object does the trick, so the new setting does not feel so scary.
TIP 4: Put on a happy face.
Anxiety may be eating you up inside, but do not let on as nerves are highly contagious. If your tone is upbeat and you seem confident that your child will have a good time, there is a better chance that he or she will be upbeat as well.
TIP 5: Keep goodbyes short and sweet.
When it is your cue to make an exit, hold back your tears a little and give your new preschooler a hug. Let him or her know when you will be back, then head out. Do not linger.
