Fall About Me

Yes, I did type that correctly!  Our beginning of the school year will combine two themes into one,  "All About Me" and "Fall" will create "Fall About Me".
 We will begin the year embracing Fall and learning Who these children are!  They will explore:

• What they look like 
• What they like: favorite colors, animals, foods, smells etc.
• What does their house look like?
• Who is in their families?  

I will be asking everyone to bring in a family photo (a copy you don't need returned) within the first 2 weeks of school.  We will make and "About Me" board with pictures to display in the classroom. This will also help them feel better about you being gone as they can look at your picture during class.  

See you all Soon!  

Here is an article I found and have used for the beginning of school year for children that may have a hard time being left.  

What to Do if Kids Cry on the First Day of School

·         Never bribe or negotiate a “deal” (if you stop crying I’ll give you this…)

·         Never send them home- this sends the message that they can get their own way if they throw a tantrum

·         Speak positively and cheerfully

·         Reassure your child you love them and will be back

·         Stay calm

·         Once you leave, DON’T COME BACK IN.  This makes it very confusing and teaches the child that crying works to get you to come back. 

·         If other children complain about noisy crying say, “Yes, Jimmy is crying because he misses his mom. He needs some time to learn how school works. Let’s show him how much fun ____ is and maybe he will join us.” Then move along to your next activity.

·         Acknowledge the child’s feelings (I know you miss your mom, you’ll see her soon.)

·         Invite the child to join in activities but don’t force them to participate if they are overly distraught.

This was an article I found many years ago that still applies today!  Some children may have no problem being left on their first day of school, but they may have a few tears after a week or two.  Some children from the beginning may have BIG FEELINGS about being left but with care and persistence it will pass and they will get used to the transition soon. 

Please know I am very compassionate with your children and will tell them “I know you are sad/mad, but I know your mom/dad is coming back!”  “Do you need a hug?” 

Also as parent helpers you may be asked to help with these children as well.   Some things to remember:

·         Don’t tell them not to cry, they need to express their feelings and we are here to help them name their feelings and learn to communicate HOW they are feeling.

·         Sit next to them and tell them and offer support by just being there and acknowledging their feelings.

·         Try and get them interested in an activity.

Please know we will love your child and try to make their transition away from you a positive experience.  Please also know if your child is REALLY inconsolable and we have exhausted all of our strategies we will call you!  

With a little love and compassion those that may be reluctant will soon be excited to come to school and have a great time!