Why the Jitters Are Normal
The days before reopening bring a surge of first day of school anxiety for everyone involved. Whether it’s a child worrying about new classmates or a parent uneasy about leaving their child at school for the first time, these emotions are a shared rite of passage. Acknowledging them is the first step toward calm.
- Preparing Children for a Smooth Start
Visit & Visualise
- Do a quick walk-through of the campus or revisit orientation photos. Familiarity lowers separation anxiety.
Set a Countdown Ritual
- Create a bedtime “sleep-until-school” calendar. Ticking boxes builds positive anticipation.
Role-Play the Classroom
- Pretend-play morning drop-off and pickup. Practice greetings, hanging bags, saying “see you later.”
Pack Comfort, Not Clutter
- Slip a small family photo or “love note” into the backpack. It offers security without distraction.
- Supporting Parents’ Peace of Mind
Know the Routine
- Review ELC’s daily schedule and Montessori approach so you picture your child’s day end-to-end.
Create a Goodbye Script
- A short, upbeat farewell (“Hug, high-five, go thrive!”) is proven to cut parent separation anxiety.
Plan Your First-Week Mornings
- Extra buffer time = fewer last-minute stress triggers like forgotten water bottles or missing an extra pair of clothes.
- The ELC Advantage: We’re in This Together
- Small, nurturing cohorts mean every child is known by name, need and dream.
- Certified Montessori educators trained in positive separation techniques.
- Flexible settling-in policy allows gradual drop-offs for the first week if required.
Final Thoughts
Starting school is a milestone that blends excitement with understandable nerves. By preparing ahead and leaning on the ELC community, you transform anxiety into confidence, curiosity and connection. Here’s to a joyful first day and an inspiring year ahead!
