Getting Started on the Write Foot... Headng to School for the First Time
Jul 20 '09
The Bottom Line School is a new, fun and sometimes scary world for preschoolers. A little something special is important in making a successful transition and an enjoyable experience.
Where I work (Head Start), fall always brings a multitude of back to school happenings. See when you work in a preschool some of our kids are coming back to school, but many are just starting their school experiences. The needs of a preschooler are just a touch different than those going back to school in elementary. As a mom of a 4 year old this year, we will be experiencing this all first-hand. Though most 3-5 year olds don't really need much to go to school, there are items that will help the transition from home to school, a little less stressful - on kids and parents.
Books, Books, Books...
My very first recommendation for any preschooler is to have tons of books. Statistics show that the more books kids have available the better they excel at early literacy skills. During the end of summer months, it is also helpful to find a few books that have to do with going to school. This prepares kids for what they might experience and what they might learn. Two of my favorites are Morris goes to School by B. Wiseman and If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff. The Kissing Hand can also be a great book for assisting with those transitions away from mom and dad. Any books talking about going to kindergarten will also do well. My Little Man loves to read and we have been enjoying Morris Goes to School and talking about how it's going to be when he goes to school as well.
Crayons, and Markers and Paper Oh My
Although preschoolers generally don't have homework, it is always nice to have materials around the house for them to be able to practice what they are learning as well as extending the learning to the home. Our particular program sends home tons of activity ideas for parents to do at home. The basics would be regular pencils (encourages proper grip), crayons, lots of paper, kid scissors and glues sticks. I always think it's important to have some form of journal for little ones to use as well. The brand of the above supplies doesn't really matter as much as actually allowing your child to use these items on a regular basis - though in my opinion Crayola does produce some of the highest quality products.
A word about supplies is that July and August are the perfect time to stock up on any school supplies as they are marked way down. Head Start does not ask parents to bring in supplies and I believe most programs include a "supplies" fee in the enrollment price if it is tuition based. If the teachers are requesting supplies, they will give you a list so just follow that.
Pack up the Back Pack
With all the back and forth, your little one is going to need something to carry the essentials in. Preschool children aren't usually hauling heavy loads but you will still want to make sure the pack fits well as to not over strain the back. Keep it on the medium side as often they have to fit in small cubbies for storage. There are millions of styles out there... just make sure your little one has some say in what you get.
And what do you put in said back pack? Most places request a full change of clothing to begin with. Most have places to put said items but you will need a way to send the items back and forth. Accidents happen and even your super potty trained 4-year old may need new undies. Even though I only work a little way away from my son's school, I don't want to be getting that phone call. Outside of that, there will be numerous papers that come home from the school and hopefully a consistent form of communication to and from the teaching staff.
To go along with a back pack, you may need a lunch box as well. Most schools are now requiring icepacks be included so be sure that cute Dora the Explorer one meets that expectation. It's been my experience that ice packs included with said boxes generally do not last very long though so you may want to search out better options, especially if you are sending items that need to be cooled.
And of course the clothes
Over this summer, my son has literally grown out of his clothes, which is normal for all children his age. So check those shoes, pants, shirts, socks and underwear. Not only will kids need a new size, it's always nice to start the first day of school with a nice fresh outfit. Even if you only get one or two new items it gives a great sense of pride. Its garage sale season... pick up something nice now and save it for school. Or you can catch the numerous sales that will be going on in the next few weeks. Again have your child help you pick these items out. The biggest skill they are learning right now is independence and decision making and that can help a ton.
One Last Thing to Think of...
Upon going to school it's important to think of your child's physical health. To begin with, most preschools fall under day care licensing regulations which require children to have a recent health assessment and up-to-date immunizations. (Note: if you choose not to immunize start now to find out what the procedure in your area/state is to waive this regulation. In many areas it requires court documentation.) But this is just the basics of a healthy body. This is also the time to be scheduling dental visits (if you haven't already) and eye exams. Most eye doctors recommend children begin before going to school so any problems can be detected early. If a child is in pain with a tooth ache or can't see properly, it will affect their learning experience and hinder they in the classroom.
Oh yea and don't forget to stock up on the Kleenex as it will only be a few weeks before your little one is bringing home every little germ he comes n contact with.
Good luck to the moms out there sending their babies off for the first time and happy before school shopping.
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Member: Carrie
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