How to Prepare a Dad for a Kindergartener's First Day at School

Most men do not show their emotions in quiet the same way as women. Sending a child off to kindergarten might change your demeanor, though. If you are a dad that is getting ready to send a five year old to kindergarten, here are some tips for you. Keep in mind that mom will be going through a lot too!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Books
• Lots of hugs and kisses

1. Talk to him about his new school since he might not know what to expect on his first day. Keep the conversation upbeat. Start talking about it early in case there is hesitation. It is better to deal with their fears earlier than later.
2. Prepare her socially. It is much easier to leave a child that can easily make new friends than one that is begging for you to stay.
3. Practice the basics in numbers, letters and colors. Have him practice writing his own name and count with him often. Preparing him will only make the transition easier.
4. Help her to develop her fine motor skills with tasks that teach coordination.
5. Read to your child often. The more words he learns, the better his vocabulary.
6. Before the first day, take a tour of the school. If given the opportunity, set up a meeting with the teacher as well. If your child is familiar with her surroundings and someone new, it will help ease your hesitation.
7. Make sure that he goes to bed early the night before and gets a good night's sleep.
8. Feed her a good breakfast in the morning before you leave for school.
9. Remind him that you will want to hear all about his day when he gets home. It will give both of you something to look forward to.
10. Take pictures to help document their experience.
11. Grandparents love that type of stuff and moms are generally too emotional to remember.
12. Give her a hug and a kiss and tell her you will miss her when you drop her off.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you are comfortable with your child's teacher and their new school. This will help the whole family.
• Make sure you are comfortable with your child's teacher and their new school. This will help the whole family.
• Register early in case you are missing a document. This will help to avoid any delays in starting.
• There are a number of books that discuss various aspects of the first day. Read those with your child and answer any questions she has. Some may even help you deal with the first day nerves.
• Some schools have a "cheers and tears" type of breakfast for kindergarten parents. The emotional support could help.
• Stay involved with his education. Volunteer when you can. The more you know about what is going on, the better.