Getting Ready to Go to School

If your child is going to school for the first time this fall, you might be a little concerned about how he or she will cope.  The truth of the matter is that the first day of school is often more traumatic for parents than for students.

It is understandable that you might worry about this big step out into the world.  There are many things that you can do to help make the transition easier for the whole family.

Suggestions for Developing Your Child’s Independence

Here are a few suggestions to encourage your child to develop more independence in preparation for school.

• Have your child spend time away from regular caregivers - an activity at your local library is a good start - check for Story Hours or Crafting.
• Save some time every day to talk over your child's day - if you make this a habit now, it will come more naturally when he or she comes home from school.
• Make sure your child has a set bedtime - your child should be getting between 10 and 12 hours of sleep.
• Start planning and arranging a homework area in your house - it will show your child the importance of school work.
• Give your child specific tasks for helping at home - tidying up will be part of the classroom routine.
• Encourage your child to be responsible for personal care such as dressing and personal hygiene
• Attend the school open house
• Plan the route to and from school
• Visit the school playground during the summer months to make it familiar
• Read together every day.

As you get ready for the first days of school you should also review safety rules.  Don't over emphasis hazards, but make sure your child knows how to keep safe.

Going to school is a big step and now is the time to start preparing so when September comes you can focus on building your relationship with your child's teacher and school.

Publications and pamphlets that can help you are available at ETFO’s online store:  shopETFO.

School Readiness Checklist

Children do not need to have specific knowledge or skills to begin school.  But it is helpful if they are able to

• share and know how to take turns,
• cooperate and play well with others,
• listen and pay attention for short periods of time,
• speak and ask for what they need,
• recognize their own names in writing,
• help out and put away classroom materials and toys after activity time,
• dress and undress themselves,
• use the toilet independently and clean themselves, and
• play by themselves with toys for a period of time without needing adult attention.
• be away from their caregivers and parents and understand that parents will come back.