Calm the First Day Jitters

Calm the First Day Jitters

Starting school each year is another milestone — and if you're like most parents, you're probably feeling a mix of pride and nerves yourself. What if your child isn’t as excited as you hoped they would be? Maybe they’re already showing signs of anxiety, or maybe you're just trying to keep things positive from the start.

Good news, There are lots of simple, fun ways to help your child feel more confident about starting school. Here's how to set the tone — and keep those first-day jitters in check.

Let Them Be Part of the Prep

Getting ready for school can actually be really fun! Let your child be involved in picking out:

• Their backpack

• A lunchbox

• School clothes or shoes

• Supplies (if the school sends a list)

Even labeling their stuff with their name can be exciting when they feel a sense of ownership: “This is MY backpack for MY school!”

Practice the Morning Routine

Kids do better when they know what to expect. A week or two before school starts, practice the morning routine — waking up, getting dressed, brushing teeth, eating breakfast — all in a relaxed way- so they are not overwhelmed on the actual first day.

Tip: Turn it into a race or a game . Set a timer and cheer them on: “Can you get dressed before the timer beeps? Let’s see!”

timer https://amzn.to/4mszUDS

routine checklist https://amzn.to/3V9opoK

Read Books About Starting School

There are some amazing children's books that help ease fears and show that school can be exciting.

A few favorites:

• https://amzn.to/4mIzJnA Curious George Goes to School

• https://amzn.to/3JpLFMC Fancy Nancy: JoJo's First Day Jitters

• https://amzn.to/3HJaW3Q Llama Llama Misses Mama

Add a special touch to their bag

Putting a little note or special item in your kid’s backpack can really help with first-day-of-school nerves. A sweet message or a funny personal item from home can be super comforting. It gives them a little boost if they’re feeling unsure or nervous. Sometimes, it’s the tiniest things that make a big difference.

https://amzn.to/3UwGxc2 pocket hug

https://amzn.to/4fFIEnw I love you duck gift

https://amzn.to/3JqhlS1 photo keychain

https://amzn.to/3JHd4K0 crochet emotional support duck

Create a Special Goodbye Ritual

If your child is feeling nervous, create a simple, comforting ritual for drop-off or

• A secret handshake

• phrase you say to each other

• A “hug button” (draw a heart on their hand that you both press for a hug)

These little touches remind them you’re still with them in spirit.

Avoid Lingering at Drop-Off

It’s so tempting to stick around if your child looks unsure — but long, emotional goodbyes can actually make things harder. Keep it short, sweet, and confident.

Try: “I love you! Have the best day! I’ll be back right after school!”

Kids take their emotional cues from you — if you look like you believe they’ll be okay, they’re more likely to believe it too.

Celebrate the Small Wins

After the first day (or week), focus on the positive:

• “You did it! You’re officially a first grader!”

• “What was the best part of your day?”

• “I’m so proud of how brave you were!”

Even if they had a few tough moments, recognizing their efforts helps build confidence for tomorrow.

If They’re Already Nervous… Normalize It

If your child is already anxious, that’s okay — and pretty common. Instead of brushing it off, try saying:

• “It’s totally okay to feel a little nervous before something new.”

• “Lots of kids feel that way — and guess what? Most of them end up really liking school!”

• “Let’s make a plan together so you feel ready.”

You could role-play a school day, make a countdown calendar, or draw pictures of what they think school will be like. (link puppets)

Starting school is a big change — but with a little prep, some fun rituals, and a whole lot of encouragement, you can help your child walk into kindergarten feeling excited, not anxious.

Don't forget to document the special moment!

https://amzn.to/41wTR42 first and last day of school photo prop

This is just the beginning of an amazing journey — for them and for you.