In most areas of the country Labor Day is synonymous with one last chance to go out of town or have fun together before returning to school. Many localities have already returned to classes but for the majority of the country, the first day of school is usually after Labor Day.
Children are usually so excited to start the new school year. They have new books pencils, papers, shoes and great expectations about what they will learn during the year.
For many children this will be their first day of Kindergarten. This is a very special rite of passage in each child’s life even if they have attended pre-school. Somehow, these five year olds just know they have made it to the big-time!
Perhaps your child is entering middle school for the first time. Everything may seem chaotic and energetic at the same time. If your student is a freshman in high school, he or she may feel like she has just entered a land of giants. Chances are he will get lost trying to find his way around the monstrous building.
Along with the joy of starting a new school year, most children also feel a bit of fear, which is quite normal. Students may worry about things such as, what their teacher will be like, what will be expected of them, will it be too hard, and will they have friends to socialize with. Continued gentle reassurance can help to alleviate those fears. If your school offers a student/parent orientation before school starts or on the first day of school, try to attend with your child. This may help them to feel more comfortable. More importantly is to be involved in your child’s education and school at some level throughout the year. Read Kaye Siders upcoming article titled “K for Keep Parents Involved” for some excellent tips on how to be an active parent. If fears or discomfort lingers for more than several weeks, talk to the teacher about what your child is experiencing.
Happy Labor Day to all of you, and best wishes for a prosperous school year.