Cooling Kindergarten Worries
Easing Your Child's Stress on the First Day
Take your child to a pediatrician to be certain there are no physical problems that could interfere with the ability to perform in class. The visit is also a good time to be sure immunizations are current. Set a firm bedtime about two weeks before school starts. A child should go to bed by 9 or 9:30 p.m. in order to get between eight and a half and nine hours of sleep each night. A good night's sleep is necessary in order to be fully rested, better organized, interested in learning and alert enough to function. Decide how your youngster will be transported to and from campus. Check on schedules. If possible, take your child to campus during the summer before classes start. Walk around the halls together and become familiar with the layout. If time permits, visit the school more than once. Students should have a wardrobe in keeping with the school's dress code. Uniforms, if offered, eliminate the stress of what to wear each morning and are a good option for families on tight budgets. Foster healthy eating habits. Serve a nutritious breakfast and pack a lunch with wholesome foods. Avoid the temptation to include items that are high in fat and carbohydrates. Teach your child the importance of hand washing. Because kids transmit diseases – mostly by hand – very easily, they should know to wash their hands after using the bathroom. If children are eating afterward, it's vital they understand not to bring germs to the table. Exhibit a positive attitude to set the tone for a productive educational and social experience. 
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