Off to school we go

Starting school can be a rather emotional time for everyone - some of those mums at the school gate even have a tear trickling down their cheeks. Carol Fallows has some advice to help all first timers - from kids to mums and dads. 

1. Plan ahead
If your child has already been to an orientation day she will have had the opportunity to look around. If not the school is likely to arrange for new children to explore in the early days. Some schools arrange for new children to have a buddy (an older child) who will help them to get used to the school environment.

If you can walk to school do so with your child before the first day, even if you will be driving more than walking. Walking to and from school with your child is a great way for her to unwind and for you to hear about what the day has been like. Make sure your child knows a place where she will wait at the end of the day to be picked up. 

Whether you walk or drive always act in a safe way, explaining to your child what you are doing and why.

2. Be realistic and supportive
You know your child better than anyone else. Your child may expect to come home on the first day being able to read or to have found a best friend. Help him to understand that these things take time. He may decide that's he over school and he would like to do something else. You will need to be patient and understanding. 

It is also important to remember that children develop at different rates and your child may be slower than other children at some things. If at any time you are concerned, talk to your child's teacher.

3. Help your child learn to be independent
Children need to be able to do things for themselves at school and a child who has not had much experience of being independent may find being on her own overwhelming. By planning for the practical things( see below) you can help. If your child doesn't already have a few responsibilities start now by asking him to help, giving him choices and letting him decide what he will and won't do at times. Continued...