A new learning experience is exciting, sometimes nerve-racking and always an adventure. Here are a few ideas and suggestions to help you manage when preparing your little or big one for their first day at school and beyond!
4 Keys to help you succeed!
Structure
Stay organised, be consistent in tasks.
Routine
Children thrive on knowing when things will happen and how the day will go.
Predictability
Be predictable, follow the same routine, eat similar breakfasts, take the same route, hug and kiss goodbye at every drop off/collection.
Reassurance
Always be confident, reassuring your child that they are safe, and you trust their teachers and school environment.
Reading & Educational games
Reading is essential to learning, always make time for the bedtime story or for teaching moments with your child.
Educational Board games are great fun and aid children in mathematics, strategy and critical thinking.
School Supplies – Uniform & Stationery
- Buy uniform with room to grow, little ones grow fast.
- Ask the school for a stationery list early in the year so you can start purchasing throughout the year instead of only in December.
- Don’t Panic – work with the school to figure out the best places to buy these items.
Lunches Sorted!
Try to pack a balanced lunchbox, small portions of vegetables, fruits, yoghurt and a staple sandwich or something similar.
Easy to eat foods work best so your child doesn’t struggle to eat at school.
Ideas to swop between: Crackers, cheese, yoghurt, sausages, mini burgers, sandwiches, carrot sticks, cucumber sticks, fruit rolls, dry wors, biscuits, apples, pears, bananas, watermelon.
If your child can read, a little love note in the lunchbox is always a favourite!
Screen Time
Try to find low stimulation programs such as Bluey or educational games.
Try to put away devices at least 1 hour before bedtime so your child develops healthy sleep patterns.
Alternatives to screens can be audio books, games, an LED drawing pad and of course playtime!
Building a child’s positive mindset:
- Have confidence in your child
- Reassure whenever needed
- Stay consistent
- Praise your child
- Use Positive talk
- Pray with your child
At Home Space for learning:
Set aside a space that is organised and quiet for your child to be able to complete their homework.
Make it a positive parent interaction where you can be involved with how homework is completed.
Remember….
You’ve got this Parents!
Every day is a new day to improve, start again or get better.
Give yourself grace, parenting is not always easy!
Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. – 1 Corinthians 16 verses 13-14
By Rachel Scullard, Treasure Tots Alberton Principal
