As the new school year approaches, getting ready for back to school can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. To help ensure a smooth transition for you and your child at Western Heights Montessori, we’ve put together a comprehensive checklist. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for back to school!
School Supplies
Make sure your child is equipped with all the necessary supplies for a successful school year. Here’s a list to get you started:
- Uniforms: Shop for uniforms early to avoid out-of-stock issues and the back-to-school rush.
- Backpack: A labeled backpack to hold your child’s belongings.
- Extra Clothes: Two complete sets of backup clothes (similar in color and style to our uniform dress code), labeled with your child’s name.
- Diapers, Wipes, and Diaper Creams: For infants and toddlers who are not potty trained, please ensure you provide an ample supply.
- Water Bottle: Fill it with water daily and bring it back home to disinfect.
- Indoor Shoes: Comfortable, non-slip shoes to wear inside the classroom. Choose shoes that are easy for your child to put on by themselves to cultivate independence at a young age.
- Blanket: If your child naps with a blanket, bring it to school with their name labeled.
Preparing for the First Day
The first day of school can set the tone for the entire year. Here are some tips to help your child (and you) prepare:
- Routine: Get your child used to the school’s routine. Start adjusting lunch and nap schedules to match the school schedule a few weeks before school begins.
- Try New Foods: For infants and toddlers who haven’t been introduced to a variety of foods, ensure you introduce new foods on the school menu at home to avoid allergic reactions.
- Positive Talk: Start talking to your child about school, how wonderful it is, what they might be doing there, and assure them you will be coming to pick them up at the end of the day after they have had so much fun!
- Practice Runs: If your child is new to the school, practice the route to and from school to reduce first-day anxiety.
- Label Everything: Make sure all belongings, including uniforms and supplies, are labeled with your child’s name.
- Quick Goodbyes: Give your child a big hug, leave them with our loving teachers, and say goodbye quickly. Children can sense your anxiety. The best way to avoid first-day big emotions is to wave happily and leave promptly. Most children cry on their first day due to the new faces and environment, but they will be okay and get distracted once the day begins. Lingering parents often make it harder for children to adjust. Tell your child you love them and will be back to pick them up once they have had so much fun!
Montessori-Inspired Tips for a Successful First Day
- Prepare the Environment: At home, create a small, organized space where your child can keep their school supplies. This helps them learn responsibility and organization, key Montessori principles.
- Independence: Encourage your child to do as much as they can by themselves, such as dressing, packing their backpack, and choosing their outfit. This fosters independence and self-confidence.
- Practical Life Skills: Incorporate practical life activities at home, such as setting the table or watering plants. These activities build fine motor skills and a sense of accomplishment, aligning with Montessori’s focus on practical life skills.
- Consistency and Routine: Establish consistent morning and evening routines. Consistency helps children feel secure and understand what to expect, which is vital for a smooth transition to school.
- Emotional Preparation: Use stories and role-playing to discuss what school will be like. Reading books about starting school can also help ease anxiety and build excitement.
- Familiarity with Montessori Materials: If possible, introduce your child to some Montessori materials and activities at home. Familiarity with these items can make the classroom environment feel more comfortable.
By following these tips and preparing thoughtfully, you can help ensure that your child has a smooth and successful start to the school year at Western Heights Montessori. We look forward to a fantastic year of learning, growth, and fun!