First day of school (and the night before)

I know tomorrow is not the first day of school but here are some ideas to help make the first day a little easier.

THE NIGHT BEFORE

– Make a To-Do-List. Use words and pictures to help kids understand their morning tasks.
For example:
– 7 am – Wake up
– Make bed
– Get dressed
– Have breakfast
– Brush teeth
– Play time (depending on your schedule)
– Use the bathroom
– Pack lunch and school bag
– 8:30 am – Time to leave
– Make a healthy lunch. Include a bottle of water and maybe a love note. Check out Laptop Lunches, Family Fun, Hillers Market, and Whole Foods for great lunch box ideas.
– Pack your child’s backpack with school supplies and extra clothes. Add a note or family photo to ease the transition from summertime at home to school.
– Make sure your child has completed all summer assignments, and that they are packed in bag.
– Tuck your kids into bed early and read a good book together.

THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL

– Wake your child early, to allow plenty of time to get ready for the day.
– Make a yummy breakfast. How about Fabulous French Toast from Kids Health or Michael White’s Whole-Wheat Peanut Butter Waffles from Cookie Magazine?
– Drive your child to school on the first day, if possible, even if you plan on using alternative transportation later in the year.
– Walk your child to their classroom, if permitted, greet the teacher, and reintroduce your child.
– Familiarize your child with his/her cubby, coat hook, and the nearest bathroom.
– Introduce your child and yourself to other parents and their kids.
– Remind your child what time you will be back for pick-up. Be prompt!
– Make your goodbye upbeat and brief. Use a familiar goodbye routine. Don’t sneak out when your kids aren’t looking – it may make your child anxious.
– Learn the names of the other kids in their class. It will make school seem friendlier and more familiar.
– Have a family supper, if schedules allow, with your kid’s favorite food and celebrate the first day of school!