Back to school for new parents
Sending your child to school for the first time can bring many challenges. For new parents, this may be the first time you have left your child with someone other than family or a trusted friend. Preparing for the start of the school year will help ease anxiety as you adjust to this new routine.
Meet the teachers in advance. Attending the school’s open house and getting to know the teachers beforehand can go a long way toward helping you feel more comfortable about leaving your child in their care. Write down any questions you may have and don’t be afraid to ask for contact information such as an email address.
Create a routine. Establishing routines, even before the school year starts, can help create a sense of normalcy for both you and your child. Try adjusting bedtimes and morning alarms to prepare for the school year schedule a few weeks in advance to smooth the transition for everyone.
Provide support while setting boundaries. While long goodbyes and frequent check-ins with your child can be tempting, it's important to set boundaries. For example, keeping your goodbye short in the morning will help them feel more independent and prevent separation anxiety.
Connect with other parents. Many new parents share similar fears or anxieties about their children starting school. Getting to know the other parents who are or have been through similar situations can help you feel less alone. Don’t be afraid to ask the advice of those who have older children as well.
Take care of yourself. This transition can be challenging both physically and emotionally. Try talking to your own parents or parental figures in your life to process your emotions, and don’t forget to take some time for yourself throughout this transition.
Remember to give yourself and your child plenty of grace, especially in the first few weeks. This is a major adjustment that will take time. Also, don’t hesitate to ask the teachers for additional advice or reach out to a counselor for support.
