As the school year kicks off, excitement, anxiety, and curiosity are likely swirling through your home. Whether you are a parent sending your child off to school for the first time or you have been through this before, each school year brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. As your EY & Primary school counselor, I am here to offer some guidance to help make this transition smooth and successful for both parents and students.

Here are a few suggestions for a positive start of the year:

1. Talk About What to Expect, Familiarize Your Child with the School Environment:

Open House at Verita is a great opportunity to take a tour of the school before the first day. Show them their classroom, the playground, where they will eat lunch and meet their teacher. This helps your child know what to expect and reduces the fear of the unknown. What might also be helpful is explaining what their day might look like, including activities like morning meeting, classroom time, recess, lunch, and dismissal. The more they know, the more comfortable they will feel.

2. Read Books About Starting School:

This is a great idea if you are used to having story time together. You can choose age-appropriate books that focus on starting school. Stories about other children’s experiences can help your child relate and process their feelings. This also opens up conversations about their own emotions and expectations.

3. Prioritize a Consistent Routine and Rest:

Starting a consistent bedtime routine before school begins is very important. A well-rested child is more likely to have a positive experience on their first day. You can establish calming activities before bed, such as reading or a warm bath, to help them wind down.

4. Practice Separation, Ease Into Independence:

If your child is not used to being away from you, I recommend you practice short separations. Start by leaving them with a trusted caregiver or family member for brief periods. Reassure them that you will always return and that they will have fun while you are away.

5. Create a Morning Routine:

This can be a fun time spent together by planning outfits, packing lunches, and organizing backpacks the night before. In the morning, it can be a good idea to follow a consistent routine that includes time for breakfast and any other calming activities. A smooth, stress-free morning sets a positive tone for the day.

6. Encourage Independence:

Small acts of independence can build their confidence and make children feel more capable on their first day. You can teach your child simple skills like putting on their backpack, fastening shoes, and opening lunch containers.

7. Acknowledge Their Feelings:

Let your child know it is okay to feel nervous, excited, or even scared. Maybe you can share your own stories about starting school or another new experience, emphasizing that these feelings are normal and that they will likely pass as they get used to their new environment.

8. Plan a Special Goodbye or Create a Ritual:

This works wonders for anxious children and not only. A great idea is to develop a special goodbye routine, whether it’s a unique handshake, a hug, or a phrase you say every day. A predictable, positive farewell can make parting easier for both you and your child.

9. Be Positive and Enthusiastic, Model Excitement:

Your attitude is contagious. Speak positively about school, emphasizing the fun and exciting aspects like making new friends, playing games, and learning new things. Your enthusiasm will help your child feel more excited and less anxious.

10. Keep the First Day Low-Key, Manage Your Own Emotions:

It’s natural for parents to feel emotional on their child’s first day of school, but you should try to keep these feelings at a low intensity in front of your child. A calm, reassuring demeanor will help your child feel secure. After drop-off, you can plan to do something enjoyable for yourself to ease any anxiety you may be feeling. Parents have needs too!

Preparing for the first day of school is all about creating a sense of security, excitement, and confidence in your child. By planning ahead, establishing routines, and providing emotional support, you can help your child approach this new adventure with enthusiasm and a sense of readiness. Remember, the first day of school is just the beginning of a wonderful journey filled with learning, growth, and new experiences.

I am always here to support you—whether it is with any kind of guidance, emotional support, or helping to navigate any challenges that arise. Let’s make this school year the best one yet!

Ana Maria Abătăcesei, Primary & Early Years School Counsellor

Verita International School Bucharest is a fully accredited IBDP and COBIS International British school with over 1,000 students and 200 teachers located in both Romania and Greece. Following the National Curriculum of England & Wales, Verita enhances learning through progressive inquiry-based frameworks and a social-emotional curricula. The school’s extensive membership networks contribute to a global community of schools committed to providing quality education.