the Y
On the first day or week of kindergarten, leaving our child in a new environment or with new people for the first time can naturally bring out feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and insecurity in both children and parents.
Whilst some children sail through the kinder doors, for others it is a challenge to overcome, so here are some ways you can prepare and help your child and yourself to ease the separation experience.
It’s important to maintain stability and routine in your child’s life, and establishing a morning routine can provide some reassurance. In the weeks leading up to kinder, have your child wake up at the same time every morning, let them get dressed themselves, pack their own bag and enjoy a sustainable breakfast.
Open and honest communication with your child is paramount. Before the big day, talk to your child about kinder; let them know what they will be doing at kinder and why.
For Corinne, whose 3 year-old commenced last year, taking time to introduce ideas and routines with her second child helped ease the transition.
“Talk about what is going to happen and then make sure that you follow through with it. Try and maintain the routine, keep it every day. Consistency is key.”
Where consistency is one factor in reducing anxiety, familiarity is also something to consider. Try to attend your Y Kinder’s orientation day, so your child can recognize a familiar face on their first day. You could also introduce your child to others who will be attending the kinder.
Alternatively, you can drive or walk past the kinder location with your child, as if you would on their first day. When the time comes, the location will already be a familiar place.
On the day, it is also helpful to have the same (or similar) pickup and drop-off spot.
Children pick up on cues from their parents, so if you show signs of stress or anxiety, this may cause them concern. It’s best to keep goodbyes short, with no lingering and no tears.
“The longer you linger, the worse it gets for everyone,” Corinne adds.
You can briefly remind your child what they will be doing but most of all, let them know you will be back.
Although it can feel natural, it is important not to become emotional in front of your child. Staying positive in the moment is the best thing you can do.
The anxiety that a child experiences may differ to that which a parent feels, but it’s important to recognize that both are completely valid.
Seeing your child crying or appearing distressed can be hard to take, especially if it is their first experience being away for a long period of time.
“It’s natural to feel bad.” Corinne said of her experience. “I know that with my first child, I had to sit in my car for a little bit after the first drop-off, to deal with it.”
Have a plan for yourself for the day (or week) to keep busy. Make an appointment or organise something enjoyable and try to enjoy the me-time!
Remember, you can always contact your Y Kinder to check in. Our supportive teams understand that this can be an emotional time, and are happy to help and provide further information.