When a child is 2.5 to 3 years, parents are excited to send their kid to formal schooling. This requires some adjustment from the child.
Here is how you can help your baby have a smoother kid transition from home to school.
Months before the child goes to school show her the things she would learn and enjoy at school and the kind of fun that she can have with teachers and friends.
You can even do a role play of a teacher and student/children and make her get used to the idea of how a play group or a school functions.
Stories or made up stories of your own childhood fun days at school will make her curious to give it a try at school.
Once you have shortlisted the school, get her acclimatized to the environment by spending time at the school before her ‘first day’.
You could take permission of the school authorities and take your child on a tour exploring the basic things about the school such as her class room, play area, toilet etc.
It will be even better if she gets to be introduced to her would-be class teacher. It is essential that the child knows where she is going to spend time away from her home.
Parents, especially moms can try to be away from the child for small gap of time before schooling begins. The kid will slowly be aware of the pattern that would evolve at school, being away from home and mom.
Set up play dates at home with two or more kids thus fostering social interaction before schooling begins.
Spread the Excitement
Before the school begins, involve her when shopping for her school supplies such as her dress, shoes, snack box, water bottle etc.
Keep mentioning to her about all the fun she will have wearing and using the newbie supplies on the first day.
Make a routine of getting up early in the morning and getting ready for school at least a week before the school starts. This way, the child will have enough time to get adjusted biologically to tackle her new challenge. It is quite unfair to expect a small child to get used to the routine on day one.
On the important day, ensure you, your family and the child are relaxed.
If possible, (most of the schools do permit) one of the parents can stay back at school and wait to see if she is coping well at school.
At the end of the school hours, even if the child does come back crying or has had a potty accident do not panic.
Importantly do not question or admonish your child in front of her teacher or friends. Children are sensitive and it is best left to talk to them on these matters when you both are alone. Make her understand that schooling would be fun only when she goes to school regularly. If the child does well without any fuss on the first day, ensure you praise her enough and give her a reward such as a star to keep her going. Keep motivating as much as possible until she finally settles down at school.