A great way to reduce first-day jitters is to familiarize your child with their school environment in a fun and relaxed manner. Here’s how:

• Visit the School Grounds: Take a walk around the school grounds. If there’s a playground, spend some time playing there. Bring along a frisbee, jump rope, or ball, and let your child run around and play. This helps them associate the school with positive experiences.

• Explore the Surroundings: If there isn’t a playground, you can still play catch or tag on the school field. The goal is to make your child comfortable with being on school property before the first day arrives.

The Weekend Before School: Play and Prepare

As the first day draws closer, keep the momentum going with these activities:

• Saturday and Sunday Fun: Dedicate some time over the weekend to visit the school again. Play a few games in the schoolyard, such as freeze tag or catch. This continued exposure will help your child feel more at ease when they step onto the school grounds for the first day.

Empowering Your Child: Making Choices Together

Giving your child the opportunity to make decisions about their school preparations can significantly reduce anxiety. Here’s how you can involve them:

• Choosing a Lunchbox: When selecting a new lunchbox, offer your child two acceptable options and let them choose their favorite. This small decision gives them a sense of control.

• Picking a Backpack: Similarly, allow your child to choose their new backpack. Provide them with options that meet your criteria, such as durability and price, but let them make the final decision.

• Selecting Snacks and Lunches: Involve your child in choosing their snacks and lunches. For example, let them choose between baby carrots or sliced apples, and between Oreos or chocolate chip cookies. When it comes to sandwiches, offer choices like peanut butter and jelly versus ham and cheese. This process not only makes them feel involved but also ensures they’re excited about their meals.

• Clothing Choices: If your child doesn’t need to wear a uniform, let them choose their outfit the night before school. This reduces morning stress and gives them the confidence to start the day wearing something they like.

The Morning of the First Day: Reducing Anxiety

The first day of school can be nerve-wracking for any child. Here’s a key tip to make it go smoothly:

• Pre-Plan Outfits: The night before the first day, have your child pick out their clothes. This not only prevents last-minute arguments but also helps reduce the overall anxiety of the morning routine. A smooth, conflict-free morning sets a positive tone for the day ahead.

• Breakfast Planning: The night before allow your child to pick their breakfast from 2-3 acceptable choices, for example, cold cereal, muffin, or oatmeal, and have it ready for them.