Never heard of it? We’ve got all the information about Cynefin and its benefits for your children. 

What is cynefin?

Cynefin is a Welsh concept that means more than just habitat; it signifies a deep sense of belonging, rootedness, and identity. Culturally, it plays an essential role in Wales, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s place in the world and connections to community and heritage. This sense of belonging and identity is crucial for creating a cohesive and supportive community.

Cynefin in the new curriculum for Wales

The new curriculum aims to build a sense of belonging in children by incorporating Cynefin. It emphasises learning about local history, language, culture, and the environment, helping children understand and appreciate their heritage. By doing so, it strengthens their identity and connection to their community, promoting a well-rounded, inclusive education.

How does cynefin impact children?

1. Boosts self-esteem and social skills

Understanding and feeling a part of their Cynefin can have a profound impact on children’s development. It can:

• increase their self-esteem,
• enhance their social skills,
• and deepen their connection to their community.

When children feel a sense of belonging, they are more confident and better equipped to engage with the world around them.

2. Enhances cognitive and emotional development

Engaging with their cultural and historical context helps children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, it creates emotional resilience, as children who feel connected to their heritage and community often exhibit greater emotional stability. This comprehensive approach to learning supports not only their intellectual growth but also their emotional well-being, preparing them to navigate the world with confidence and a strong sense of identity.

How do schools promote cynefin  

Day-to-day activities to help embrace cynefin could include:

• Storytelling sessions: Sharing local legends.
• School trips: Visiting historical sites.
• Welsh language lessons: Learning the language and traditions.
• Community projects: Participating in local events.
• Nature walks: Exploring local nature to connect with the environment.
• Art projects: Creating artwork inspired by local culture and history.
• Guest speakers: Inviting community members to share stories and experiences.

How can we help our children with cynefin?

You can explore local history together, participate in community events, and encourage your children to ask questions about their heritage. These activities help reinforce the sense of belonging and rootedness that Cynefin promotes.

Building a supportive environment

Creating a supportive and inclusive environment is essential both at daycare and at home. Therefore, collaboration between daycare staff and parents is key to reinforcing the sense of belonging in children. 

By embracing Cynefin, we can help our children develop a strong sense of belonging and identity, fostering their overall development. Together, parents and daycare staff can create a supportive environment that nurtures confident and connected individuals.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Why is it important for a child to feel safe?
• Creating a Strong Foundation: Why Day Nurseries Are Essential for Early Learning
•  How to Help Your Children Identify and Manage Their Feelings
• 5 Valuable Life Skills that Children Learn Through Age Appropriate Chores

The post “Cynefin” – Building a Sense of Belonging in Our Children appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

That’s where our starting school checklist comes in.

This guide ensures you’re not just prepared but confidently equipped for the big day. Because while the first day of school is a milestone, being well-prepared can make it a joyous one.

1. Essential School Supplies Checklist

Uniforms and Clothing: The first-day photo is a cherished memory, so ensure your child looks the part. Invest in the school’s uniform, but also remember spare clothes for those unexpected spills. Don’t forget the PE kit for physical activities, and ensure you have weather-appropriate clothing – be it raincoats for drizzly days or sun hats for the warmer months.

Stationery and Learning Tools: Every budding scholar needs their tools. This part of the starting school checklist includes essentials like pencils, erasers, and notebooks. A colourful pencil case can also be a fun and practical addition.

Lunch and Snack Preparations: Nutrition is vital for a day full of learning. Invest in a sturdy lunchbox and a leak-proof water bottle, and when it comes to snacks, think healthy. Fresh fruits, yoghurt or a handful of nuts can be great energy boosters.

Personal Items: Labelled items such as backpacks, lunch bags, and water bottles not only ensure they don’t get lost but also instil a sense of ownership and responsibility in your child.

2. Emotional Preparation

Transitioning to school is as much an emotional journey as it is a practical one. As part of your starting school checklist, it’s essential to prepare your child mentally for this new chapter. 

Begin by discussing the new routine they’ll be adopting, perhaps by using a fun calendar or visual aids.

Reading books about starting school can also paint a positive picture and alleviate any jitters. If possible, visit the school beforehand, allowing your child to familiarise themselves with the environment. 

Lastly, a consistent bedtime routine ensures they’re well-rested, and always make time to discuss any anxieties or fears they might have, reassuring them every step of the way.

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3. Building Independence

One of the most rewarding aspects of starting school is watching your child grow in independence. Simple tasks like tying shoelaces, packing their bags, or using the bathroom on their own can be monumental milestones. 

At Schoolhouse, we understand the importance of these skills. Drawing from our extensive experience in childcare, our starting school checklist and programmes are designed to nurture and develop these abilities, ensuring your child steps into school with confidence and self-reliance.

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4. Staying Informed and Involved

Ticking off items from your starting school checklist is just the beginning. Stay in the loop by diligently reading all school communications – those newsletters and notices are golden nuggets of information. 

Make it a point to attend parent-teacher meetings; they’re the perfect avenue to understand your child’s progress and areas of improvement. And why stop there? Immerse yourself in school activities, be it a sports day or a school play.

** For a treasure trove of parent resources and tips, websites like Netmums are invaluable.

Embarking on the School Adventure: Your Starting School Checklist Completed

As we wrap up our comprehensive starting school checklist, let’s circle back to the heart of the matter: preparation.

 It’s the magic wand that transforms anxiety into excitement, and uncertainty into confidence. Parents, trust your instincts. You know your child best.

 And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Schoolhouse stands beside you, a steadfast partner, ensuring your child’s transition to school is as smooth and joyful as possible.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

• The ABCs of School Readiness: How to Get Your Child and Yourself Ready
• Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition
• Is Your Child Anxious to Start School? Here are 4 Essential Tips for Comforting Them
• 8 Signs Your Child is Suffering From Back-to-School Anxiety

The post Starting School Essentials: Parent Guide and Checklist appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

The Importance of Early Education

Early education is crucial for setting the tone for your child’s lifelong learning journey. Day nurseries play a crucial role here, offering a structured yet engaging start to education. Research is clear on this. 

Research conducted by National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) found that children who participate in well-executed early education programs demonstrate higher high school graduation rates, improved employment prospects, and reduced behavioural challenges. This highlights the transformative impact day nurseries can have. 

By focusing on cognitive and social skills, they lay the groundwork for our children’s academic and personal success, right from their tender years.

The Role of Trained and Experienced Staff

Day nurseries are enriched by dedicated, trained, and experienced staff who play a pivotal role in shaping your child’s early learning experiences. Staff members come from diverse educational backgrounds, including early childhood education and child psychology, which equips them with the knowledge and skills to foster a child’s development effectively.

Their role goes beyond teaching the ABCs. They nurture emotional intelligence, encourage curiosity, and instil a love for learning. With their expertise, they identify and cater to individual learning styles, ensuring each child’s unique developmental needs are met. Truly, they’re the backbone of day nurseries.

Age-Appropriate Activities and Resources

Day nurseries offer a wide variety of age-appropriate activities and resources, from interactive games to educational toys. The resources are designed to promote cognitive development, language skills, creativity, and physical coordination. 

This diversified approach keeps learning fun and engaging, which cultivates well-rounded children ready to embrace future educational challenges.

Benefits of Structured Learning Experiences in a Group Setting

The structured group learning experiences at day nurseries are invaluable. These experiences boost not only academic knowledge but also social skills. 

Children learn to cooperate, share, negotiate, and understand different perspectives – vital life skills that textbooks alone cannot teach, proving that learning in a group setting truly is a social and educational win-win.

The Stimulating Environment of Day Nurseries

Day nurseries create a vibrant, stimulating environment that fosters every aspect of your child’s development. The spaces are nurturing, promoting cognitive growth, social interactions, emotional maturity, and physical dexterity, all while keeping your child’s safety paramount.

Holistic Approach of Day Nurseries

A holistic approach is adopted at day nurseries to focus on your child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development. 

The curriculum extends beyond academics, fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, physical activities, and creativity. Learning experiences are customised to each child’s needs, creating a solid foundation for their lifelong journey.

Day nurseries play a crucial role in fostering your child’s passion for learning and overall development. They prioritise a balanced approach, nurturing your child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth, laying a solid foundation for their future achievements. 

Your child will receive excellent care and education at day nurseries which will prepare them for school and the challenges of life, providing parents and caregivers peace of mind. Let’s join hands in nurturing the bright future of our children together!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

• A Parent’s Survival Guide to the Summer Holidays
• 10 Things to Do with Your Children Over the Summer Holidays
• 5 Ways to Make Happy Memories this Summer
• 4 healthy snack ideas to try during the summer holidays

The post Creating a Strong Foundation: Why Day Nurseries Are Essential for Early Learning appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

If this is a situation you are finding yourself in, don´t fret! Here are the ABCs of school readiness.

A is for Attitude

The very first teacher a child has are their parents, so develop a positive attitude in your child towards learning and school. Instil in them the joy of learning, the fun in discovery, and the excitement of meeting new friends. It’s vital to make the process exciting and something to look forward to.

B is for Balance

School readiness involves both the mind and the body, and you can help get your children ready for both. Encourage physical activities to develop their fine and gross motor skills, and start teaching them how to express their feelings appropriately and how they can handle their emotions. 

A UK study, published in the Journal of School Psychology, found that social-emotional skills at school entry predicted key stage 1 national curriculum assessment outcomes in both reading and maths. This reinforces just how important social-emotional development is for school readiness.

C is for Communication

Nurturing communication skills is a crucial part of school readiness. Foster an environment at home where your child feels safe to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to articulate their needs, dreams, and fears. This will equip them to interact effectively with their teachers and peers.

D is for Discipline

Establishing routines and expectations helps your child understand and follow the rules, an essential skill they’ll need in a structured school environment. Start with simple tasks like packing away toys after playtime, following a bedtime routine, or helping with simple household chores.

E is for Exposure

Stimulate your child’s curiosity and learning by exposing them to a variety of experiences. Visiting parks, museums, libraries, or even just a trip to the grocery store can be an educational experience. These moments provide practical ways to discuss new topics and broaden their understanding of the world.

Now, let’s not forget about you, the parents. Your readiness is equally crucial. Embrace the change, be prepared for the new routine, and always be there to support your child. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and help them navigate their challenges. Remember, it’s not about making them reliant on you, but about fostering independence.

Remember, no perfect formula exists, and every child’s school readiness journey is unique. So, take a deep breath, enjoy this new phase, and trust that you are doing a fantastic job!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

• Prepare For Starting School: A Guide for Anxious Parents
• Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition
• 8 Signs Your Child is Suffering From Back-to-School Anxiety
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself!) for School Separation Anxiety

The post The ABCs of School Readiness: How to Get Your Child and Yourself Ready appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

What makes a healthy packed lunch?

Before we start sharing our packed lunch ideas, it’s important to explain what goes into a healthy packed lunch. 

According to the NHS, a balanced diet should include:

• Dairy products (or non-dairy alternatives) like milk and cheeses.
• Protein sources like meat, fish, pulses and beans. 
• Starchy foods like potatoes, bread or pasta.
• Fruits and vegetables. 

So, for each packed lunch you create, try and include (at least) one product from each food group, as this will ensure your child is always eating a well-balanced meal. 

10 ideas for healthy packed lunches

Our list includes a mixture of main meals, snacks and special treats. So feel free to try a few each lunchtime! Our hope is that you’ll find some suggestions that spark your child’s interest and encourage them to eat their lunches.  

1. Star-shaped sandwiches 

Sandwiches are a staple for a reason – they’re simple and delicious. But after a while, they can get a bit boring. So keep things interesting by cutting them into exciting shapes and experimenting with new fillings!

2. Fruit skewers

We’re all looking for ways to make fruit seem more exciting. So try popping some chopped fruit and berries onto a skewer. Sometimes all you need to do to spark your child’s interest is to make their packed lunches more interactive.

3. Pick ‘n’ mix

Don’t worry – our list of packed lunch ideas doesn’t include a bag full of sweets and sugar. Think of this as antipasti for kids. Fill their lunch box with their favourite fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses and let them have at it!

4. Hummus

Hummus is a parent’s best friend. Naturally high in protein and made from chickpeas, this delicious dip is the perfect way to get your children to eat their legumes. Just pair it with sliced peppers, carrots or even crackers for a tasty lunchtime snack.

5. Popcorn

Looking for a healthy alternative to crisps? Popcorn is an amazing option! Sweet or salty, this high-fibre snack adds texture to any lunch box and is always a welcome treat.

6. Pasta pots

Pasta is one of our favourite packed lunch ideas because you can prepare it well in advance! Pair it with pesto, tomatoes and a source of protein for a well-balanced energy-boosting lunchtime meal.

7. Side salads

Sometimes our children need a bit of incentive to eat their vegetables. So rather than presenting them with plain veggies, try creating a salad with some protein and a dressing. It sounds so simple, but a drizzle of vinaigrette or a dollop of salsa can make a world of difference! 

8. Yummy yoghurts 

We couldn’t create a list of packed lunch ideas without including yoghurts. Why? Because they’re both delicious and high in calcium! Plus, there are so many flavours out there that you’re bound to find one the whole family enjoys!

9. Banana pancakes

Who says you can’t enjoy breakfast all day long? Simply mix one mashed banana with one egg and two tablespoons of flour before frying like a pancake. Allow to cool before packing with fresh fruit and yoghurt to dip, and you have a delicious lunchtime treat.

10. Chocolate-covered fruit

We all enjoy a treat now and then. But instead of packing a chocolate bar in your child’s lunchbox, why not dip their fruit in chocolate instead? Bananas, apples, strawberries and oranges all make for tasty chocolate-covered treats. (Plus, you can rest assured your child’s still getting plenty of vitamins and minerals.) 

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Pack some excitement inside their lunchbox

So there you have it – our 10 packed lunch ideas for parents. Whether you try one or all ten of our suggestions, we hope you find some exciting additions to include in your child’s lunch box!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• 8 Healthy Foods for a Growing Child
• 5 Benefits of Sharing a Family Meal
• How Young Children Can Help in the Kitchen

The post 10 Packed Lunch Ideas For Parents appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

To help you identify whether your child is stressed about returning to school, we’ve outlined 8 symptoms of back-to-school anxiety. But don’t worry – our advice doesn’t end there. We’ve also included a few suggestions to help soothe your child if they are experiencing any anxiety. 

1. Difficulty sleeping 

Irregular sleeping patterns often signify your child is suffering from back-to-school anxiety. So keep an eye out for any sudden changes. For example, if your child has trouble falling asleep or is waking throughout the night, they may be anxious or overwhelmed. 

2. Abnormal appetite 

It’s no secret that stress can affect our appetite. So make sure you’re paying attention to your child’s eating patterns. If they are overeating or undereating, it could be a sign they’re feeling stressed about school starting.

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3. Aches and pains 

If your child continually complains of aches and pains, but you can’t detect any signs of a physical illness, it may be because they’re suffering from anxiety. 

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4. Lack of confidence 

Often when our children suffer from back-to-school anxiety, they lose a lot of their confidence. So be aware if they become increasingly insecure, apologetic, or doubtful of their abilities. 

5. Trouble focusing 

If your child is struggling to focus for more than a few minutes (whether that’s when they’re playing, reading or watching television), it may be because they’re preoccupied with worrying about school. 

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6. Easily irritated 

When dealing with complex emotions like stress and anxiety, it’s not uncommon for our children to lash out. Why? Because they don’t know how else to deal with these emotions. So, if your child misbehaves more than usual, consider the fact they could be (subconsciously) crying for help.

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7. Withdrawn and disengaged 

It’s always concerning when our bright, bubbly children disengage with their friends and favourite activities. Granted, we all have good days and bad days. But if their withdrawn behaviour becomes more frequent, it may be because they’re suffering from back-to-school anxiety.

8. Constantly seeking reassurance 

When we feel vulnerable, we often seek reassurance from our close friends and family. So if your child is acting unusually clingy or is constantly asking questions about school, it may be that they’re nervously seeking reassurance. 

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Easing your child’s anxieties 

If you think your child is worried about returning to school, try not to panic. It’s natural for us to feel anxious at times – especially when we’re going through transitional periods. With that said, there are some steps we can take to try and soothe their back-to-school anxiety.

Address any negative self-talk – it’s okay for your child to feel nervous about school. However, you don’t want their anxiety to get out of hand and impact their self-image. So always address negative self-talk by reminding them they are loved, valued and capable. 

Be attentive – pay close attention to your child’s behaviour and monitor their eating and sleeping habits. The quicker you can identify their back-to-school anxiety, the sooner you can help them through it.

Discuss how you can help – every child has different needs. So make sure to talk to your child about what support they need. They may want to visit their classroom, talk about their feelings, or simply spend quality time with you before school starts. 

Reassure them – instead of avoiding talking about school, try to reassure your child by discussing the positive aspects. Talk about their favourite lessons and play times with friends. It may not be a fix-all solution, but it can certainly soothe their anxieties. 

(For more advice, read: Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition)

This too, shall pass

It’s heartbreaking to see our children suffering. But (with any luck), their anxiety should subside once they’re back at school. So try not to worry too much. 

With that said, if their anxiety persists, don’t be afraid to seek professional advice. Every child requires a different level of support, so focus on helping your child with their back-to-school anxiety. 

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• 5 Tips For Parents Dealing With Separation Anxiety
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself!) for School Separation Anxiety
• Is Your Child Anxious to Start School? Here are 4 Essential Tips for Comforting Them

The post 8 Signs Your Child is Suffering From Back-to-School Anxiety appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Here are 5 strategies to help soothe your anxiety:

Take care of the logistics

There’s a lot to organise for your child’s first day of school. Transport, uniforms, lunches – the list goes on. So it’s understandable if you’re feeling stressed. The good news is that you can eliminate these anxieties by tackling your to-do list.

Start with the essentials (buying uniform, practising the school run) and continue until you feel content with your preparations. For example, if you’re worried your child won’t like their lunches, enquire about the school menu or practice preparing packed lunches they will enjoy.

Talk to their teacher

Often, our anxieties come from our fear of the unknown. So, it can help to have someone available to answer our questions and address our concerns. And who better to ask about preparing your child for starting school than their teacher?

Not only can they provide all the information you need, but meeting the person who will be caring for your child can be incredibly reassuring.

(With that said, try to save only the most specific questions for their school teacher. A quick Google search can usually address a lot of your queries.)

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Check in with your child

It’s natural to worry about our children. What if they don’t enjoy school? What if they struggle to make friends? However, it’s important that we don’t project our own worries and concerns onto them.

The best way to assess how your child is actually feeling is to talk to them! If they are unhappy or have any concerns, they will let you know. Otherwise, try your best not to worry! Instead, focus on preparing your child for starting school by encouraging excitement and discussing what to expect.

Seek support from your partner or other parents

Sometimes, all you need to do to alleviate your anxiety is to talk to someone who understands how you’re feeling. So don’t bottle it up. 

Share your concerns with friends, family members or even other school parents. Whether they can relate to how you’re feeling, offer some valuable advice or simply calm you down, a problem shared is always a problem halved.

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Develop coping strategies

Although the main source of your anxiety is about preparing your child for starting school, that doesn’t mean your anxiety will disappear once they’ve settled in. Therefore, it’s a good idea to develop coping strategies to help manage your stress regardless of the circumstances.

Whether you trial different breathing techniques, channel your energy into exercise or talk to a professional – the goal is to find something that makes you feel good.

You can’t pour from an empty cup

It’s so easy to get swept away when preparing your child for starting school. But you must remember to prepare yourself for this transition too! So surround yourself with supportive people, don’t be afraid to ask questions and, most importantly, remember to take care of yourself!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• 5 Tips for Parents Dealing With Separation Anxiety 
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself) for School Separation Anxiety 
• 7 Common Nursery Worries and How to Overcome Them

The post Prepare For Starting School: A Guide for Anxious Parents appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

So to help smooth their transition and ease any anxieties, we’ve listed our top 10 tips to prepare your children for school:

1. Engage in lots of different activities

Your child will be involved in lots of different activities once they start school. So they will need to learn how to transition from one task to another.

By engaging in various activities at home (reading, playing, snacking), you can practice moving from one task to another whilst stimulating their brains in preparation for school.

2. Encourage independence

Although your child will have the help and support of their teachers, they won’t receive the undivided attention they’ve previously had at home. So it’s always a good idea to encourage them to become a bit more independent before starting school. You can start with simple tasks like putting their coat on or tidying away their toys.

3. Arrange play dates

Recognising a familiar face on the first day of school can really reduce your child’s anxiety. So, try acquainting them with the other children attending their school! Sparking friendships before term starts can make the whole transition much easier.

4. Take time apart

If your child is used to spending all their time at home, the thought of starting school may be even scarier. So instead of throwing them in the deep end, try scheduling some time apart. Afternoons spent with friends or family will help them adjust to spending time away from you and their usual environment.

5. Practise putting on their school uniform

For many children, the first day of school will be the first time they wear their uniforms. But it doesn’t have to be!

Allowing your child to practise putting on their uniform will help eliminate unnecessary stress on their first day.

6. Visit their school

Taking your child to visit their school is a great way to get them excited about this new adventure.

Most schools offer official open days, but if not, you can always call up and ask to take a look around. That way, you both have the opportunity to familiarise yourselves with this exciting new environment.

7. Create a morning routine

A consistent morning routine can be a great comfort to your child – especially when they’re going through so much change. So try and ensure each morning looks the same during the run-up to starting school.

8. Tackle toilet training

Not every child will be fully toilet trained by the time school starts – and that’s okay! However, it is a helpful skill to have. So try and tackle toilet training before term starts. It will encourage your child to become more independent whilst also teaching them valuable lessons like how to wash their hands.

Read: How to Master Potty Training: the Ultimate Guide

9. Talk about it

Change is scary – no matter how old you are. So make sure you’re talking to your child about starting school. Answering their questions can simultaneously ease their anxieties and encourage excitement!

10. Take care of yourself

Your child isn’t the only one going through a transitional period. So make sure you’re taking care of yourself too!

Try using this time to focus on other positive outlets like work or hobbies. And don’t forget to talk to other parents. They’re going through the exact same thing, so you may find comfort in their solidarity.

Read: Prepare For Starting School: A Guide for Anxious Parents

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Embrace the next chapter

Although change is scary, it’s also the start of a brand new adventure! So try your best to embrace the change and enjoy all the new experiences school can offer you and your child.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Is Your Child Starting School? Here are 4 Tips for Comforting them 
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself) for School Separation Anxiety
• Top Tips on Getting Your Kids Out of Bed and Off to School

The post Starting School: 10 Tips to Help Smooth their Transition appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Here are 5 tips for parents dealing with separation anxiety:

Discuss your fears

When it comes to soothing our children, we all know the importance of listening to their concerns and validating their feelings. But when it comes to us adults, many of us try and deal with our fears and anxieties alone. Instead of suffering alone find someone to confide in – a friend, a partner or even another parent. By simply having someone to talk to, you’re able to work through your fears (no matter how small or irrational) and let go of any worries that are perhaps more harmful than helpful.

Familiarise yourself with their teacher

Introducing your child to their teacher before they begin school or nursery, is a great way to ease some of their nerves. However, this introduction can also be incredibly beneficial for us adults – especially for those parents dealing with separation anxiety. By meeting your child’s teacher, you’re able to share your concerns with them and work together to find the best solutions for your child. Whatever your worries may be, having this support and reassurance can really help ease your anxiety.

Stay present

Maybe you’re worried that your child won’t enjoy nursery? Or perhaps you’re concerned they might hurt themselves when you’re not there?  Whatever it is that’s making you anxious, it’s important to remember there’s nothing you can do to change the past or alter the future. Instead, try and focus on the present and take things one step at a time. This will help you feel more in control and can help stop you from worrying about something that may never happen.

Make plans for when they’re away

Most parents dealing with separation anxiety feel lost without their children – almost like a piece of them is missing.  To avoid this feeling, try your best to keep yourself busy and start making plans for when your children are away. This can be anything from visiting your friends and family to fitting in those chores you haven’t gotten around to. However you decide to fill your time, take the opportunity to do things you enjoy – you’ll be surprised at how quickly the time goes.

Remember the feeling is temporary

Suffering from separation anxiety is difficult, so it’s important to remember that these feelings are temporary. Although it seems overwhelming to begin with, over time you will adjust and get used to this new normal. In the meantime, be patient with yourself and try to find comfort in the knowledge that your child is learning new skills and having fun with their friends. While it will take some time to get used to being apart, remember every day they go off to school, they’re benefiting from your bravery.

If there is just one thing you should take away from this article, it is that you are not alone – there are plenty of parents dealing with separation anxiety. Revisit these 5 tips as often as you need to and remember, adjusting takes time, so be kind to yourself.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Advice for parents: helping your children adjust to life after lockdown
• 7 ways to support your child when they return to school after lockdown
• Is Your Child Anxious to Start School? Here are 4 Essential Tips for Comforting Them
• How to Recognise if Your Child is Stressed and What to Do

The post 5 Tips For Parents Dealing With Separation Anxiety appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

With these 4 tips, you can help your children work through their anxieties and get them prepared for this exciting new chapter.

Spotting signs of stress or anxiety

Sometimes it can be difficult to know when your child is displaying signs of stress or anxiety. During the run-up to your child starting school, pay close attention to these telltale signs:

• Trouble sleeping – this can be either difficulty falling to sleep or poor sleep quality.
• Changes in their behaviour – are they irritable or withdrawn?
• Changes to their eating – are they eating more or less than usual?
• Are they expressing signs of worry – do they get upset or nervous when school is mentioned?

If your child is struggling with any of these issues, it’s important to address them in a way that reminds your child they’re supported and loved. Here are 4 tips for comforting them:

1. Validate their feelings

It’s important that your child knows it’s okay to feel anxious about starting school – in fact, it’s normal! Take the time to sit down with your child and listen to any of their worries and concerns. Once you understand where your child’s anxiety is coming from, you can empathise with them and start working together to find solutions. The most important thing is to validate your child’s feelings and let them know they are supported – after all, a problem shared is a problem halved.

2. Get them comfortable with new things

One of the scary parts of starting school is getting used to all the new things. But how can we prepare our children for so much change? Start by introducing them to some of the things they will see at school. Try serving their lunch in their lunchbox or allowing them to get comfortable in their new uniform. This way, when it comes to your child starting school, they’ll be faced with fewer unfamiliar surprises which can help them feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed.

3. Don’t overdo it

How many times have you heard ‘school years are the best years of your life’? This is a classic example of overdoing it when it comes to reassuring your child about starting school. The truth is, there will be things your child dislikes about school – and that’s okay. The important thing is, to be honest with them about what to expect, rather than sugar-coating the experience.

4. Reward their bravery

While there are steps we can take to help ease their transition, it’s likely your child will still feel anxious about starting school. However, what we can do is reward their bravery as they face this new challenge. Praise your child for facing their fears and celebrate their bravery! This will help them develop healthy coping skills and boost their confidence.

When it comes to your child starting school, it’s natural for them to feel nervous. But with the help of these 4 tips, you can offer them the comfort and support they’ll need to face their fears and take on this exciting new adventure.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

• Advice for parents: helping your children adjust to life after lockdown
• 7 ways to support your child when they return to school after lockdown
• How to Recognise if Your Child is Stressed and What to Do

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