Five Things

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Monday, August 23, 2010
by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford

It's August!  For some of us, it's time for our kiddo's first independent adventure. Whatever the case - preschool, music, or tumbling class - the first time you take your child to a program designed for them to attend independently, you may find yourself more nervous than they are.  Sometimes, it seems that watching our kiddo take their first steps to independence is like doing it ourselves again.

Are you ready? Is your kiddo ready? After you've got your java and chocolate in hand (at least that is what works for me), also keep in mind these 5 things to help support a successful transition for your child into an independent program:

1. Be prepared to work in partnership with the educator/program facilitator. Yes, this is YOUR child, but now, you are expanding your resources (and your child's opportunities). Do make your expectations clear, but also be willing to listen and then ask questions. Be sure to read program policies, handbooks, philosophy, etc. Remember, your job is to ALWAYS advocate for your child. Speak up when necessary.

2. Develop a routine. I hate routines. Booorrriiingggg! Although we may find them dull, our kiddos thrive on them. Since they don't yet tell time, young children thrive on knowing what is happening in their world. One way for them to feel like they have control and know what is happening is through an established routine. When it comes to saying good-bye in an a new environment, your routine may take some time. You and your child may enjoy reading books or playing together in the classroom environment.

3. Say good-bye. You may hear from others that it is easy and best to simply "sneak out" once you find your child engaged in an activity. NEVER agree to this. Put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if the one who was closest to you was suddenly gone? Always say good-bye, even if it means tears.

4. Be a cheerleader. The first days (and even weeks) of our first preschool experience, I was not excited. Truthfully, some days I didn't want to take my little girl. I wanted to stay home, to cuddle and to play. I wanted to cry when we pulled up and it was time for us to part. These are the things I wanted to do. Instead, I put on my happy face. I sang silly songs about how much fun the day would be. Children need our confidence. They need our support. They ALWAYS need us to be their biggest fans.

5. Re-evaluate. The first day may not be easy. The second may be worse. The first week may be hard. However, as time goes along, you should see you and your child are both thriving. If not, re-evaluate. What is working? What is not? Why? Talk with the educator. Take time to observe your child in the program. Go down a different road if needed. There are many programs available. Find the one that matches the developmental needs and interests of your child best.

P.S. Capture the moment. Don't forget to take pictures and even journal about these moments.

I'm off to get my java and chocolate...big day tomorrow...off to preschool! Where are you headed this week?

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