Tips to Calm the Jitters as Little Ones Embark on their Education Journey
Well, it’s getting close – Back-to-School time for the kiddos!
While elementary school girls and boys are excited about meeting new friends, seeing old ones and planning activities, the first day of school for the little ones can be a daunting and scary experience.
For 4, 5, and 6-year-olds, embarking on their preschool, kindergarten or first grade education journey, parents can help soothe those first day jitters and help make going to school a fun learning experience.
Here are some parenting tips that can help make the new routine a little easier for you and your child:
Shift bedtime early: Move bedtime and wake-up times back by 15 to 30 minutes every few days starting two weeks before school.
Practice morning habits: Run through a mock morning routine—getting dressed, eating breakfast, and putting on shoes—so the first day feels familiar.
Visit the new school: Walk or drive to the school, check out the playground, and see the building or classroom beforehand to reduce fear of the unknown.
Talk about worries: Ask your child what they are excited about and what feels scary, validating their nervous excitement.
Read together: Share engaging, reassuring picture books about starting preschool or kindergarten to open up conversations about feelings. Regular shared reading time accelerates a child’s language development by three to six months, builds crucial brain pathways, and serves as a vital social driver of lifelong health.
For added fun and comfort, share personalized storybooks with your child, like First Day of School from Storybug. Story Bug storybooks are completely customizable for your child as you can add names, skin tones, hair color, and even select an outfit. Each custom book feels like it was made just for your child because it was! With your child as the star of the story, watch as they navigate their new school, make friends, and discover that school is a fun and welcoming place, and not so scary after all!
With a little prep, a little handholding, and a trusty personalized storybook to lead the way, your child is sure to ace school year.
Storybug books are designed for real life featuring durable covers and thick pages built to survive sticky fingers and repeat reads. For more info, visit Storybug.com