First Day Nursery Nerves
It’s the start of a new school year and for many toddlers it will be their first experience of nursery.Starting in a new class can be a daunting experience for even the most feisty of little ones, but there are some simple things you can do to make sure the start of their school career is lots of fun. Start preparing for the big day in plenty of time by talking about where they’ll be going and what they’ll be doing at nursery school. Most nurseries encourage you to visit before the big day comes and it will also help to find out your child’s new teacher’s name and include it in conversation in the days running up to the start of term.
Involve your child in choosing the things they’ll need for nursery, such as packed-lunch bags, read book together about starting school and perhaps even use your child’s favourite toy to role play about going to school. To help your child build their concentration skills try painting and drawing, which involve sitting down for short periods.
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Make sure you take your child with you when you go and buy their first uniform. This helps them feel that they have chosen their new outfit and that it is not being forced upon them, making them feel important and special in their new ‘grown-up’ clothes.
Sometimes though, it’s the little things, such as familiar smells that can help make your child feel at home. Remove any finishes from their new uniform, which are used to keep them looking smart in the shop, by washing them in a non-bio detergent before the first wear. Often new school uniforms can feel stiff and scratchy on sensitive skin. Make sure you also use a hypoallergenic fabric conditioner, such as Comfort Pure, to soften clothes so children feel comfortable when moving around all day.
GP Dr Sarah Jarvis adds: “Don’t use more detergent or fabric conditioner than is recommended by the manufacturer and consider using a fabric conditioner that has been designed for sensitive skin – the benefits of the softening effects on the fibres can outweigh any possible risk of irritation by the ingredients.
Try to establish a sensible sleep routine before nursery starts – this will not only help your child get several good night’s sleep in advance, it will also mean less stress for you than dealing with a tired, overexciting toddler first thing on a Monday morning!
July 2007
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