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Off to School
Thursday, August 25, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
The question is not,"Is your child ready?"
The question IS, "Are YOU ready?"
Fall is coming and, for a lot of us, it means enrolling our munchkin in their first early childhood experiences. Whether childcare, preschool, or simply a music or other class that meets one time per week, stepping out of the home and into a new program can be scary for everyone involved, especially MOM (and DAD
)!
My kiddo is a veteran of early childhood programs. Think of me what you will, I am passionate about accessing community resources and enrolling my kiddo in all those classes that will provide her new experiences and support her growth and development.
If you're about to take those first steps into a new program, here are a few tips to help you and your kiddo through this transition:
1. Don't force it and don't fight it. If your child is acting like they aren't ready for you to go, they probably are not. As an early childhood educator, I can tell you that "yes, your kid will be okay if they cry when you leave," BUT if you have the time and energy, work with your provider to make a transition plan. This may mean you staying onsite and/or in the classroom for minutes, days, or even weeks.
2. If you need to depart and don't have time for the above, PLAN AHEAD. This means thinking 2 to 4 weeks before the start of the program. It means visiting with your child when you CAN stay. Take your time. Remember, this is ALL NEW. You need to slowly build trust and the relationship with a new caregiver.
3. Build a new relationship. The person who takes care of your child in your absence is one of the most important people you will ever have in your life and in your child's life. Communicate often and treat this person with respect. Let them know you value them and the care they provide to your child.
4. If the program is not working (meaning your child is physically upset every time you attend), re-evaluate. This doesn't mean you have to pull the plug on the program, but it does mean you need to step back and see a) what is working, b) what is not working, and c) what you can do to fix it.
5. Be consistent in your arrivals and departures from a program. Don't come late (as an adult, remember how it feels when you arrive late for work or for a meeting? - imagine how difficult it may be for your child to enter into a program that has already begun). Create rituals with your child so they feel a sense of routine and security in each day. This may mean reading a book before you leave, three hugs and one kiss, or simply waving good-bye at the door as you depart. Always say good-bye (sneaking out is called abandoning your child
).
6. Finally, have some fun. The best early childhood education is one with a foundation in playfulness. This is true in parenting too. Little ones are just that, little. Their job should be to learn, grow, and play wherever they go.
Good luck & enjoy the new adventure!
