It is that time of year again. You can see the evidence of the first day of school all over social media. Pictures of kids, of all ages, getting ready for their new year and the adventures that await. Here are 10 tips for parents on their child’s first day of school.

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10 Tips for Parents on their Child’s First Day of School

1. Create a secret signal.

Nerves are usually the norm, especially if they are starting pre-k or kinder. However, some of the older children (younger ones too) might be too embarrassed to admit it. This is where a secret signal can come in handy. For my oldest, we squeeze each other’s hand twice, which means “I love you.” You could also create a secret signal that means they need to talk to you privately. Bottom line, it is all up to you and your children and it depends on the specific needs for each situation.

2. Practice lunchbox eating at home.

I didn’t have to worry about my child eating at school last year because he was in pre-k. However, this year he will be at school all day so we made sure to practice a few things at home. I wanted to make sure he could open his juice boxes, applesauce packets, etc…I know he will have teachers at school, but I didn’t want him to lose out on a few minutes of eating time because he is waiting for a teacher to come along to help, especially when they only give them 30 minutes for lunch. Also, I wouldn’t recommend trying new things for school lunches. If you want to buy something different and let them try it out on the weekends, I would do that. Then they can help you decide if it is something they would like to take to school.

3. Give the school more than one number.

It is always better to be overly prepared. I give the school my cell, my husband’s cell, and his work number. We also give them two phone numbers for emergency contacts, which are my mom and my best friend who lives a block from me.

4. Try to get to know at least one other parent in your child’s class.

It is a huge relief to have a friend that understands the stress that comes along with a new school year. We are able to help each other out by picking up each other’s kids and reminding each other about homework, etc…

5. Make sure the school and teacher know about the medical needs of your child.

My oldest son has asthma. I have to make sure that the correct paperwork is filled out by his pediatrician and that the medication is given to the nurse. I let the teacher know what to watch for and what he needs to do if he starts getting asthma or gets too hot. Preparation and knowledge are key when it comes to the medicals needs of your children.

Also if your child is allergic to anything, make a list and give it to their teacher.

6. Label everything.

Label everything, and yes, I seriously mean everything! I write my son’s name on his backpack, notebook, lunchbox, everything. This helps with the confusion especially if kids in their classrooms have the same bags as them.

7. Velcro shoes if your child isn’t able to tie them yet.

Yes, teachers can help your children tie their shoes. However, if they have 10 kids that can’t tie their shoes yet it can take a lot of time out of their day! So, if your child still isn’t 100% on tieing their shoes than velcro shoes might be a good option.

8. Nap or bed early.

Your child will probably be exhausted, especially at the beginning of a new school year. Keep this in mind. If your child only goes half a day, a nap might be good those first few weeks of school. Putting your children to bed a little earlier might be a good idea too, especially if they are having to get up earlier when school starts.

9. Prepare your child for the separation.

If your child has been going to daycare, then they are probably more than prepared for the separation. However, if your child has been staying at home with you then it might be a good idea to start preparing them. Explain to them how the day will work and that you will be there at the end of the day.

10. Tears are normal.

Remember that tears are normal, for you and your child. I know that for my son, it is better for him not to see me cry because it just makes it harder on him. So if I am going to cry, I wait until I get to the car or back home.

In closing, I hope that you find these tips useful for your child’s first day of school. Do you have any tips? I would love to read about them in the comments. I hope you and your children have a great school year!!

“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31