Dear wonderful parents,
It’s Sarah, and today we’re talking about an achievement that is HUGE for both of our little
ones and us: the first day of Kindergarten (or Reception, as we do tend to call it here in the
UK!).
I remember it as yesterday with my oldest, Lily. She was a tiny baby one minute and then
there she was, standing there in her new school uniform that was slightly too large for her,
clutching her new backpack, looking such a big proper person ready to take on the world.
My heart was a mix of pride, anticipation, and a quite overwhelming dose of sadness.
Where did my baby go?!
It’s a huge emotional day for all of us, so let’s discuss how to survive it both practically and
emotionally.
The Build-Up: Preparing for the Big Day
The first day is not just about the day; it’s about the weeks in preparation for it.
Talk it Up Positively: Start talking about “big school” a few weeks in advance. Talk
positively. “You’re going to have so much fun!” “You’ll make new friends!” “You’ll learn
fantastic new things!”
Read Books: There are wonderful children’s books on beginning school. My favorites are
“Starting School” by Janet Ahlberg and “I Am Absolutely Too Small for School” by Lauren
Child. They assist in making normal nervousness a common feeling and develop
enthusiasm.
Visit the School: Participate in any transition days, open mornings, or ‘stay and play’
sessions that the school offers. This will acclimatize your child to the environment, the
staff, and indeed the position of the toilets!
Practice Key Skills:
Independent Toilet Skills: Must! Learn zips, buttons, and wiping.
Opening Lunchboxes/Snack Bags: If they’re having packed lunch, practice opening tins.
Recognising Their Name: Not so much writing it, but recognising it on their coat peg or
drawing.
Putting on/Taking off Coat: The seemingly minor thing which saves teachers so much time!
New Uniform Excitement: Have the uniform sorted well ahead. Get them to try it on and
make them proud to be a “big boy/girl.” Label everything (this cannot be over-
emphasised!).
The Practicalities of the Morning Of:
This is where your inner drill sergeant might come out, but try to keep it under wraps!
Get Everything Out: Uniform, shoes, socks, water bottle, packed lunch (if required), book
bag – the whole thing. The night before.
Early Alarm: Allow lots of time. Mornings are stressful enough on a day when they’re
emotional.
Breakfast Fuel: A good healthy breakfast is very important. Keep them well fed.
The School Dry Run: If you haven’t already, rehearse a drive/walk to school. Work out times
and where you will go.
That Drop-Off Moment: The Heart-Wrencher
This is it. That time you’ve probably been waiting/dreading.
Confirm Their Feelings: If they’re crying or anxious, acknowledge. “It’s okay to be a little
scared. Lots of kids are. I know you’re going to have a wonderful day.” Don’t discourage
them from feeling what they feel.
Keep it Brief, But Sweet: A quick, loving hug, a kiss, and a firm “Have a great day, I love you,
see you later!” and then say goodnight. Hanging around too long makes it harder on both of
you. Teachers are total professionals at diversion and reassurance of newcomers. Trust
them.
Don’t Slip Away: Always say goodbye. Sneaking away might make them worry you’ll walk
out one day without saying a word.
Don’t Let Them See You Cry (Until You’re Out of Sight!): This is the worst bit! You might get a
lump in your throat and pricking tears. Take it in until you’re past the gates. Then, go
somewhere peaceful (or straight to a mummy friend for a coffee!) and have a good cry. It’s
absolutely fine to cry.
The Collection: Eager Faces and Tired Bodies
Be on Time: Arriving late for collection is upsetting for a child, especially on the first day.
Expect Diverse Responses: Some will rush in smiling, full of news. Others will be taciturn,
knackered, or even a bit irate. School is exhausting! Don’t expect too much information
straightaway. “How was your day?” might elicit a “Fine” or a “Don’t know.” Try asking more
specific questions later: “What did you do during playtime?” “Was a story read to you?”
“Who did you eat lunch with?”
Keep the Night Low-Key: They’ll be completely exhausted. A low-key dinner, an early bath,
and an early bedtime are generally the agenda. No elaborate after-school parties on week
one!
For Us, the Parents: It’s Alright to Feel It All
Grief and Pride: You are losing a large chunk of their early childhood. It’s a natural
progression, but still a bit sad. Permit yourself to feel a sense of pride at their
independence, but a little sadness too because time has passed.
Enjoy Your New Time: For you, this might be the first few hours in years that you’ve had to
yourself. Make the most of it! Catch up on sleep, meet a friend, or simply enjoy the peace.
Reach Out to Other Parents: The school gates provide the perfect place to meet other
mum/dad buddies. A smile, a greeting with “Are you new here too?” or the weather can
open doors. This is your new village.
The Kindergarten induction day is a benchmark. It’s the beginning of an entirely fresh
chapter in your child’s life, a chapter of discovery, of friends, and of development. And for
you, it’s evidence of just how far you and your child have journeyed. Take deep breaths,
believe in your child, believe in teachers, and know that you’ve provided them with the
finest possible start.
