Toddlers normally protest during the first day of school. They usually cry and beg their parents to stay. Nevertheless, it's a normal response of a securely attached toddler, so no need to worry about it.
However, there are some things you can do to help your toddler ease anxiety as well as make his or her first day of school an exciting day. And here are some of it:
Don't stress your child.
According to Lori Lite, founder of Stress-Free Kids, parents shouldn't stress their newbie preschoolers. Hence, they should let their toddlers know what to expect. They can have a role play like they can pretend they are having a school morning routine: waking up early, having early breakfast and getting dressed for school. Lite said, "Just this little bit of planning and creativity can avoid a whole bunch of stress and anxiety."
Bring a comfort object.
Let your child bring his favorite stuffed toy (if the school allows it). The new setting might be scary for your child, but his toy will comfort him throughout the transition. Don't worry, if he will meet new friends, your little one will eventually let go of it and will find the new surroundings exciting.
Put on a happy face.
You might be getting worried and sad because your child is venturing out into a whole new world without you. These emotions are just normal but don't show it to your child because he might just get lonely and missed all the fun. Show a happy face instead and tell him that you're proud of him.
Don't sneak away.
Your baby will normally beg you to stay but that doesn't mean you need to suddenly disappear just to avoid the teary drama. Fran Walfish, Psy.D., child and family psychotherapist and the author of "The Self-Aware Parent" said to make everything easier just develop a goodbye ritual. This could include a goodbye hug or a kiss then followed by a reassurance that you will return to pick him up.
Anxiety might be consuming you inside while you're sending your baby to preschool. But you need to be strong and hold yourself together to give all the support and patience your child needs while he's facing the huge change of his life.
