Here are some tips for buying kids’ school shoes.

Tips for Buying Kids’ School Shoes:

Getting the right fit is crucial when buying school shoes. Poor-fitting shoes can lead to discomfort, blisters, and even long-term foot problems. Here are some tips to ensure your child’s shoes fit correctly:

Toe Room:
There should be about a thumb’s width (approximately half an inch) between the end of the shoe and your child’s longest toe when standing up.

Width:
The shoe should comfortably hug the foot without being too tight or too loose. Ensure that there are no pressure points or areas where the shoe pinches.

Heel Fit:
The heel should fit snugly but not too tight. Your child should be able to walk comfortably without their heel slipping out of the shoe.

Flexibility:
The shoes should bend easily at the ball of the foot, allowing for natural movement when walking or running.

Comfort:
Let your child walk around in the shoes to see how they feel, and ask them to run, too; we all know new shoes go fast! They should not experience any rubbing or discomfort, especially around the toes or heels.

Sock Test:
Have your child try the shoes on with the socks they typically wear to school. This ensures a more accurate fit.

Remember, children’s feet can grow quickly, so checking the fit regularly throughout the school year is essential. It’s recommended that you check the fit of their shoes every 6-8 weeks.

Here is an example of an online tool for measuring your kid’s feet. This is especially helpful if you want to buy their shoes online!

Knowing When Your Kids’ Shoes Have Worn Out:

Shoes can wear out quickly with active kids, often before we even realize it. Knowing when it’s time to replace them is crucial for their comfort, safety, and foot health.  Here is how to identify when your kids’ shoes have seen better days.

Worn Outsoles:
The outsoles (the bottom part of the shoe that touches the ground) are the first area to show signs of wear. Look for smooth or uneven tread patterns, especially in high-traffic areas like the heels and balls of the feet. If you notice significant wear, it’s time for new shoes, as worn-out outsoles can affect stability and grip. This is especially important with school shoes and gym shoes, as the tiled floor is often slippery.

Lack of Support:
Over time, the shoe’s midsole, which provides cushioning and support, can compress and lose its resilience. Press your thumb into the midsole; if it feels firm and bounces back, it’s still supportive. The shoes may no longer provide adequate support if they feel flat and offer little resistance. 

Visible Damage:
Check the shoes for any visible damage, such as tears, holes, or loose stitching. These issues not only compromise the shoe’s structural integrity but can also cause discomfort or injuries to your child’s feet. Velcro straps can become fluffy and may no longer stick, making the shoes dangerous if your kids feet slip out.

Foot Pain or Discomfort:
If your child complains of foot pain or discomfort, or if you notice any changes in their walking or running patterns, it could be a sign that their shoes are no longer providing adequate support or cushioning.

How to Avoid Lost Shoes: Yes, It Happens a Lot with Kids!

The easiest way to avoid lost shoes with kids is to label them! This is especially important when they have indoor/outdoor shoes, boots for changing weather, and shoes for sports or extracurriculars. Multiple shoes leave so many opportunities for them to get left behind and end up in the lost and found.  These shoe labels are waterproof, sweatproof, and super cute!  They’re fully customizable and stick into the insole of your kids’ shoes, making them easy to spot.

Plus, if your little one struggles to put their shoes on the right foot, these left-right preschool shoe labels are a great solution!  

The Importance of Properly Fitting Shoes in Kids

Ideally, children’s shoes should be replaced every 3-6 months, depending on how quickly they grow and how often they wear them. Here are some general guidelines:

Active Shoes:
Shoes worn for sports or daily outdoor activities may wear out faster than those worn indoors or for less active pursuits.

Comfort and Fit:
If your child complains of discomfort or if their shoes no longer fit properly, it’s time for a new pair, even if the shoes appear to be in good condition.

By staying vigilant and regularly checking your kids’ shoes for signs of wear, you can ensure they always have footwear that supports their growing feet. Investing in quality shoes and replacing them promptly when needed keeps your child comfortable and promotes healthy foot development. Remember these tips to navigate the world of children’s footwear confidently, knowing you’re providing the best for your little ones.

The post Kids’ School Shoes; Everything You Need to Know About Buying, Sizing, and Replacing Shoes appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Here are the top picks for the kiddos who love to carry everything to school:

1. JanSport SuperBreak Backpack 
   

JanSport has been a trusted brand for ages, and their SuperBreak Backpack is a classic choice. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it ideal for kids who like to fill their bags to the brim. With a roomy main compartment and a handy front utility pocket, there’s plenty of space for all their essentials. Plus, it comes in a range of fun colors and patterns to suit every personality!

Pros:

• Lightweight with durable construction.
• Spacious main compartment.
• Available in a variety of colors.
• No mesh bottle pockets that catch up on tings and rip.

  Cons:

• The straps have limited padding, which can make it tiring to wear for longer periods.
• The lack of specialized compartments may make organization a tad difficult.

2. L.L. Bean Deluxe Book Pack 
   
   L.L.Bean has been an epitome of quality and adventure for generations. Their Deluxe Book Pack is tough as nails, with reinforced stitching and weather resistant fabric that can handle all the antics your little one gets up to. They have plenty of pockets for organizing the kids’ goodies, and cushioned shoulder straps for added comfort. These backpacks are extremely durable, so they could serve as a good investment for multiple summers.

   Pros:

• Reinforced stitching for durability.
• Water resistant fabric.
• Multiple compartments and pockets for organization.
• Water bottle pocket can hold up 12-to-14-ounce kids water bottles.

  Cons:

• The backpacks do not have a sternum strap, so its important to ensure that the size is correct for your child. A bigger size might feel bulky to the child.

3. Skip Hop Zoo Big Kids Backpack If you’re looking for something a little more playful, the Skip Hop Zoo Little Kid Backpack is sure to delight your little one. With adorable animal designs and kid-friendly features like a mesh side pocket for their water bottle and a front pouch for snacks, this backpack is as functional as it is cute. Plus, it’s perfectly sized for preschoolers and young elementary schoolers.

   Pros:

• Attractive designs that kids love.
• Front pouch for snacks and small items.
• The size is perfect for preschoolers and young elementary students.
• Have sturdy zippers and adjustable straps.
• Reasonably priced.

  Cons:

• Mesh water bottle pockets that can get stuck on things and rip.
• The sleek design may compromise on storage a little more than our other picks.

4. Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Youth Backpack 
   
   For a trendy option that doesn’t compromise on functionality, check out the Herschel Supply Co. Heritage Youth Backpack. It has a sleek design with modern features like a padded sleeve, which can be perfect for your older kiddos. They have a range of designs to choose from and have great storage for kids who want to carry a bit more gear.

   Pros:

• Spacious compartments without being bulky.
• Padded laptop sleeve.
• Adjustable shoulder straps for customized fit.
• Good quality zippers that can endure rough use.

Cons:

• Might be a little bulky for preschoolers or kids who do not typically carry laptops.
• Younger kiddos might find the designs less attractive.

5. Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack 
   
   Last but certainly not least, we have the Pottery Barn Kids Mackenzie Backpack. It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your little artist to make it their own! With its customizable options and sturdy construction, it’s a favorite among parents and kids alike. And with padded straps and plenty of pockets, it’s as practical as it is pretty! The also make adaptive backpacks designed for kids with disabilities.

   Pros:

• Perfect for little designers who want their favorite characters (Toy Story, Paw Patrol, Disney Princesses), or unique features (glow in the dark, shimmery, etc).
• Offers five size options, including one of a rolling bag.
• Spacious and sturdy.
• Many compartments to help keep things organized.

  Cons:

• The backpacks may seem a little childish for older kids.
• Laptop sleeve is not padded, so kids who carry laptops may need added protection.
• Mesh water bottle pockets may be vulnerable to catching on something.
• Customizable feature makes delivery time long (besides, there are labels and tags for that!)
• High cost due to customization.

So, there you have it, a roundup of backpacks that’ll turn your little one’s adventures into epic quests filled with excitement, imagination, and endless possibilities. No matter which backpacks you choose, you can be confident that your little one will be ready for any adventure that comes their way. And with convenient shipping options available for both the US and Canada, you can have their new backpack delivered in time. Strap in and get ready to watch them soar!

Happy packing!

The post Top Backpack Picks for Kids Who Love to Carry Everything to School! appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Things to do before your child starts at a new school

As always, you know your child best and are the most qualified person to customize these ideas for them. Some kids will benefit from lots of advance information, while others are better off taking each moment as it comes. Here are some proactive steps you can take before your child sets foot in the new school:

• Talk it through. This may be especially important for older kids who are more attached to their existing school and need time to wrap their heads around the change. Adopt the role of sympathetic listener and let them express their emotions. Validate their feelings of frustration or nervousness. Later, when they’re in a less emotional headspace, explain why this school is a logical solution and highlight its appealing features.
• Read about it. Normalize the back-to-school experience by reading picture books like Mooncat and Me or The New Bear at School. Recommended picks for junior students are the middle-school classic Wonder and the award-winning graphic novel New Kid.
• Do your homework. Surf the school’s website and social media accounts for useful information such as the principal’s name, bell times, newsletters, and important dates.
• Reach out. Call the school so you can be directed to the appropriate contact person, whether it’s the principal, vice principal or guidance counselor. The school may already have an established orientation process for incoming students. Make a list of questions in advance (with input from your child, if appropriate) and take this opportunity to ask away.
• Get the first-day scoop. Find out the school’s first-day traditions and procedures. Inquire about your child’s class placement in advance, so they can arrive at school already knowing their teacher’s name and room number.
• Generate positive hype. Do you know anyone — such as a friend, relative, or neighbor — who attends or previously attended the school? Enlist them to chat briefly with your child and share their positive reviews.
• Play it up. If the schoolyard and playground equipment are open to the public, take your child there for some unstructured play time several days before school begins.
• Take a tour. Now that you’ve got all the background information, you’re ready to schedule a tour of the school itself. See as much of the building as you can and help your child locate common areas such as the library, gym and cafeteria. Walk around the outside to find your child’s line-up zone, entrance/exit door and bus pick-up area, if relevant.

Supporting your child on the first day at a new school

 There’s bound to be a lot of nervous energy on the first day, so here are a few factors to consider:

• Travel together. On day 1, you may want to keep things simple by driving your child or walking with them to school. You can work out the transportation details on day 2 and beyond.
• Gear up. You know best if your child will be excited to start fresh with a brand-new backpack, lunch box and water bottle — or will be comforted by having their well-loved, familiar ones. Either way, label all their belongings so nothing is lost or mixed up.
• Re-cap some friend-making tips. Give your child a few basic strategies and conversation starters for meeting new kids. Dress them in a shirt with a favorite character or sports team on it, as a head start to finding common ground with peers.
• Be upbeat yourself. Your child will take their cue from you, so put on a brave face. Be understanding about their jitters, yet firm and confident in their ability to handle this.

How to set your child up for success at their new school

 After you survive the first day, here are some additional tips for the days and weeks that follow:

• Establish lines of communication. You’ll want to connect with your child’s teacher as soon as possible. They will play a pivotal role in making your child feel welcome, placing them with compatible peers, and keeping you in the loop if issues arise. Start by sending an e-mail and ask for an in-person meeting if possible.
• Send support. A mom friend shared her concern that lunch period would be the loneliest time for her son at his new school. So, she sent a little “love note” in his lunch every day, with an encouraging message. Mabel’s Labels Washaway Lunch Box Notes are great for this purpose!
• Get involved. Attend school events, such as the “Meet the Teacher” night or Parent Council/PTA meetings. Encourage your child to get involved in school activities such as intramurals, clubs, sports teams, and student leadership.
• Log in. To ensure your child isn’t left out of anything, make sure you are signed up in the school’s online system for e-mail updates, pizza orders, field trip forms, and fundraisers.
• Set a healthy routine. This transition will place extra demands on your child, so make sure they are eating balanced meals and getting plenty of sleep. Minimize before-school stress by establishing a solid morning routine that isn’t rushed. After school, do your best to balance out homework and free time.

While starting at a new school can be intimidating, you and your child will get through it, one day at a time. Before you know it, they’ll be settled into a groove, and what previously seemed like a “big deal” will now be their daily routine.

The post Tips for Kids Starting at a New School appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare to send your kid to school with allergies:

Understand your child’s allergies:
Make sure you have a clear understanding of your child’s allergies, including what they are allergic to, common symptoms, and emergency procedures. Others can’t help you if you don’t have all the details, so make sure to get all the info you need before starting a plan for the school.

Prepare your medical documentation:
Provide the school with medical documentation from your child’s healthcare provider detailing their allergies, emergency contact information, and any necessary medications or treatments.

Get your child an appointment over the summer months to ensure there are no new updates or changes needed to any of the info, and you can provide the most up-to-date information for their school file.

Start developing an Allergy Action Plan:
This plan should outline specific steps to take in case of an allergic reaction, including symptoms, treatment (such as administering epinephrine if needed), and when to seek emergency medical help. Make sure you fully understand all of this so you can clearly pass along the information.

-What medications (epic pens, inhalers) does the child need with them each day?
-Where do those medications stay at school (a spot in the classroom, on their desk? On their person)?
-What symptoms is everyone to be aware of?
-What treatment is needed?
-Who administers the treatment?
-Who gets called first?
-If your child needs to go to the hospital, who will travel with them?

Label food containers, lunch boxes, bag, backpacks and medications:
Ensure that any medications your child may need, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, are properly labeled with their name and dosage instructions. Provide a backup dose of medication to keep at the school if needed. Make sure all backpacks, bags, lunch bags, snack container and water bottles are labeled with these Custom Medical Alert Label Pack for school kids.  Educate your kids child about their allergies:

-How to recognize symptoms of a reaction
-What triggers their allergens
-How to avoid allergens
-What to do if they have a reaction

Make sure they know all this information like the back of their hand. Teach them how to communicate their allergies to teachers and peers, and give them tips on what to say and how to advocate for themselves.

Discuss allergy accommodations with school staff:
Work with school staff to develop the accommodations needed for your child’s allergies. This may include measures like nut-free classrooms or lunch areas, allergen-free snacks provided by the school, and special seating arrangements in the cafeteria. Include all of this in your action plan.

If your child has lunches provided or gets food from the cafeteria, make sure you ask questions:

-How will they identify your child when serving food
-How will they manage possible cross-contact within the kitchen?
-Will a staff member be watching child over the lunchtime period?

Make sure that the school has steps in place to ensure that the allergy action plan is passed along to all teachers, including substitute teachers! Don’t be afraid to ask them about this often. You may feel like an annoyance, but it benefits your child’s health, and they may appreciate or need the reminders!

Pack Safe Snacks and Meals:
This goes without saying: If your child has food allergies, provide safe snacks and meals for them to bring to school. Make sure they understand not to share food with classmates and to always check ingredient labels. If you don’t take it seriously, nobody else will, either.

Stay Informed of policies:
Stay informed about school policies and procedures related to allergies and any updates or changes. Keep lines of communication open with school staff and be proactive in addressing any concerns or issues that arise, especially for sports events, outings and field trips etc. when routines change.

Review and Update Regularly:
Review your child’s allergy action plan and accommodations regularly to ensure they remain up-to-date and effective. Make any necessary revisions based on changes in your child’s allergies or medical needs.

Preparing and communicating effectively with school staff and your family doctor can help ensure a safe and supportive environment for your child with allergies.

The post How to Set Up Your Kids Allergy Plan for School appeared first on The Mabelhood.

How to organize the schedule between both parents:

Start discussing the school schedule well in advance to avoid any last-minute conflicts.  Consider the following:

-PA Days
-Doctor and dentist appointments (especially any that may impact your ex’s days  or pick-up times)
-Parent-teacher interviews
-pick up and drop off’s
-extracurricular schedules
-Special days (pink shirt days, pizza days etc.)

Make sure it’s on everyone’s calendar and that any adjustments to the calendar or schedule have been discussed in advance. Make sure everyone is aware of what each day entails and has the items needed.

Coordinate supplies and schedule:  

Coordinate your shopping trips to avoid duplicating purchases or missing out on essential items at the beginning of the school year. Share information about what you plan to shop for, and what you have already bought. Some items will work best if doubled up, others not so much.  (Don’t forget to add labels to your list!)

Have a plan for coordinating the schedule and making sure that they have everything they need when they need it. For example, if they have dance class, make sure the dance gear is where it needs to be regardless of who’s house, they’re sleeping at. Putting this responsibility on your kids is too much, you need to help them sort it out. Having a set plan and open communication will make everything go smoother.

So make a schedule and post it somewhere that’s visible to both parents. That way, when it’s dance night, they won’t be without their clothes and shoes.

Co-parents and how to communicate with the school:

Always have open and respectful communication with one another, with your kids, and with the school. Make sure all important information from the school is shared with both parents. Discuss any concerns, but try and keep the kids out of any potential conflict.

Have budget expectations for each parent:

Agree on a budget for school expenses and discuss how you will split the costs. This will help avoid any financial disagreements.  For example, school trips, new clothing and back-to-school supplies, extracurriculars etc.

Decide on which parent will attend your child’s school or sporting events:

Ideally, both parents can attend sporting games, parent-teacher interviews, school open-houses etc. But if this will cause too much tension, it’s best to create a schedule of who attends what ahead of time, and let your kids know so they’re not disappointed.

If you can manage to put your differences aside and both attend, it will have a positive impact on your kids. It will also help everyone in the family know who the teachers are, meet the coaches, and communicate effectively. If one parent doesn’t attend, the other parent will become the default opening the door to future confusion and conflict.

Understand one another’s house rules:  

Recognize that your ex may have different preferences or ideas about certain parenting ways. It’s important to have a conversation with one another about what happens in each home, and how to be open to compromise.

Screentime and kids’ on social media are often areas of conflict, share your thoughts privately (not in front of the kids) and try and find a common ground. Respect the rules you’ve created for each home. Use a mediator for any situations causing tension that may impact the kids.

Keeping routines similar between homes is important for the well-being of the kids; so try and work towards similar:

sleep schedules
snack routines
homework expectations

Children do better at school when their parents Work together to maintain consistency in both homes.

Keep the child’s best interests in mind:

At the end of each day, the goal is to provide the best possible experience for your kids. Put their needs first and prioritize their comfort levels, their preferences, and most of all, their well-being throughout the school year.

Co-parent as a team:

Always stay focused on cooperation and teamwork. Your kids will benefit from seeing their parents working well together, and this can have a positive impact on their mental health.

Seek mediation if you’re experiencing conflict: 

A new school year is tough for any family. But especially those newly separated. When you add in the scheduling conflicts that co-parents have to deal with, shared parenting during the school year can be very stressful. If you are having trouble working as a team, mediation is a great way to problem solve and create a plan for the best interest of your kids moving forward. If your child is showing signs of struggle, make sure to get them help too. Here are some tips of your child is experiencing anxiety about the school year.

Co-parenting requires patience and compromise. It will look different for each family, of course, but a few things are for sure: open and respectful lines of communication and prioritizing your kids’ needs will help your child have a positive school year!

The post How to Co-Parent Through the Back-to-School Transition appeared first on The Mabelhood.

We’ve made it easier for you both by creating a fun checklist for you and your kiddo to work on this summer. The list is below, and here is a FREE Kindergarten Readiness Checklist for your little one to work on.

1. I know how to open my lunchbox!

• Have fun with this by packing a few “test” lunches before school starts. Have your child zip open their lunch bag while also taking them through how to open any snack packaging, lunch containers or water bottles they may be using as well!  Make sure you label your lunchbox!

2. I know how to dress myself!

• Accidents can happen especially in a school setting, so it’s imperative that they know how to change themselves if need be. This also includes things like knowing how to put their indoor and outdoor shoes on, their jacket, and if you’re somewhere that experiences a cold, cold winter – making sure they know how to take on and off all of that gear! (For the extra layers, add some Tag Mates so clothing doesn’t go missing)

3. I can recognize my name!

• Kindergarten teachers make a really fun environment for the kids, and this can often include name tags and personalized workstations. Making sure they can read their names before starting will really help with their independence in the classroom! This will also help them recognize their labeled items and help keep stuff out of the lost & found.

4. I can hold a pencil, marker or a crayon!

• Kindergarten is all about FUN and most of their learning consists of things like arts and crafts – being able to hold a writing utensil properly will help them in the long run!

5. I know how to be kind!

• It can be hard for children to immediately find connections when it comes to starting school, especially if they aren’t used to being around other children all the time. Learning how to be kind will help them build friendships quickly and make buddies on the first day!

6. I know how to raise my hand!

• Knowing how to ask for help in a classroom setting will also provide your child with independence when it comes to succeeding in kindergarten, this is another thing you can practice at home!

7. I like to share my toys!

• Starting school is all about sharing and this is something they will learn when they’re there. It can be hard for them to learn this at home, especially if they are an only child, because they might think that everything belongs to them! Teaching them the importance of sharing before the start of school will help them in the long run.

8. I can clean up after myself!

• Most of their early learning will consist of stations with things like arts and crafts, pretend play and more. Cleaning up will be a big part of the day, so try and make it fun as they learn by using a song or a rhyme to help!

9. I can use my manners!

• It’s important that we don’t put too much pressure about manners on our kids at such a young age but saying things like please and thank you in the classroom will help them not only with their teachers, but it will also help with making friends!

10. I know how to play nicely with others!

• Learning their manners, sharing and knowing how to be kind with others will make this step a much easier one to learn. This too will come with time – but it’s something we can easily start implementing during at-home playtime!

11. I can sit and listen!

• Although Kindergarten is all about fun, there will be sometimes that children will need to sit quietly and be able to listen to their teachers. Although you may have some trouble with this at home (don’t we all?) you’d be surprised how different they’ll be at school!

12. I can count to 10!

• Do not feel pressured if your child isn’t doing this quite yet, it truly is remarkable how quick they can learn and pickup other things when they start school. There are lots of things that can help you practice this at home before the starting of school – try things like fun games, songs and rhymes to help prepare them!

13. I can say my alphabet!

• This really is something they’ll work really hard on when they start school, but it’s important that they are able to verbalize at least a few of their ABC’s – make it fun!

14. I know some of my colors and what they look like!

• Being able to point out colors and say their names is something that will help them when it comes to your children showing their artistic side at school. Practice this with flashcards and games and they’ll learn them all right in front of your eyes!

15. I know when to use the washroom!

• This may seem like an obvious one, but it’s normal for your little ones to be a little stressed when it comes to going to a different washroom every day. Help your child by discussing with them how important it is for us to know when and where to go to the washroom when it comes to being at school!

If you don’t feel ready yet – don’t sweat it! Many moms and parents struggle with the first day of school jitters, maybe even more than their little ones, it’s only normal. Have fun during the rest of the summer by going through your checklist and have your kiddo check something off it when they feel like they’ve mastered a skill. You’d be surprised how excited they are when they realize how quickly they’ve learnt their ABC’s, or the look on their face when they’ve figured out exactly how to open and close their school lunchboxes. From holding onto our hands for dear life, to stepping foot into the classroom – time really flies. Let’s make sure they’re set up for success this September (both you and your child!)

For more back-to-school info, check this out! 

The post Starting School Checklist for Little Kids appeared first on The Mabelhood.

First, parents may begin to see behavior changes in their anxious or sensitive kids this time of year. Kids may start to ask a lot of questions about the new year (which is particularly difficult when you don’t have the answers for them).   

Some signs they may be struggling with transition to a new class or school:

• They may begin to talk back or seem angry
  Many emotions and thoughts rush through them, which can be daunting, and they often can’t recognize the root of the problem or know how to regulate those emotions, resulting in anger or lashing out. Remember that behind every behavior is a feeling.
• Showing physical signs
  They may have headaches or tummy aches. This is common, and while these are anxiety symptoms, it’s important to remember not just to treat the headaches but to address the anxiety, which could help relive the physical symptoms.   
• Withdrawal
  If your outgoing child suddenly seems to be withdrawing, they may be overthinking and experiencing anxiety. 

Remember that keeping the lines of communication open is one of the best ways to work together with your child to ensure that you can help them. The key to a successful transition is open lines of communication. Don’t do the work for them; teaching them how to work through it is what will provide them with long-term success. Keeping your child accountable for their part in the process will allow them the greatest success.

Don’t allow your own anxieties to get in the way.

For some parents, it’s common to suffer from anxiety too. Watching our children struggle can bring out our insecurities and fears. Remember that What makes you anxious may not affect them the same way. Be mindful not to project your insecurities onto them. Show confidence and excitement about the new year (gently, without shame). Get yourself organized so you feel prepared and therefore less anxious.

Focus on what will remain the same

Find what will be the same. Perhaps they’ll enter the school through the same door each morning or travel on the bus with the same kids. Find the similarities and focus a lot on those. 

Validate their feelings

Allow them to talk openly about how they feel. Validate those emotions. Resist the urge to make your child’s feelings disappear. Instead, help them to identify and express their feelings. Don’t sweep them under the carpet; this will teach them that their feelings are shameful. We want to encourage our kids to recognize, identify and talk about their feelings. Another good way of doing this is to lead by example. If you’re nervous about a new situation, tell your child and let them know how you’re dealing with those fears.  

Allow room for stress, and recovery

Setting our kids up for success (not only with the new school year but by providing life skills for the future) means teaching them self-care. Make sure they get a good night’s sleep. Take breaks when needed and keep expectations low in the beginning.   

Build a new routine slowly

Start by making a list of what school supplies will be needed, then allow them to sit with that for a day or so. Then go shopping. Talk through the morning routine together, let them sit with that, then a few days later, walk through it together. Slowly add tasks and changes when you notice a decrease in their anxiety.

Do a walkthrough

If your child is nervous, try doing a run-through so the first day of school, your child is already familiar with the routine. First, discuss what the new routine will look like, then walk it through. This also helps parents plan for timing. Nothing exasperates anxiety by rushing your child on the first day of school. So, a dry run will allow your child to become familiar with this part of the transition and help parents with time management to eliminate some of the chaos and rush.

Here are more ways to help with back-to-school nerves. Always to reach out for support if you feel unable to help your child, or they show signs of being in crisis.

The post Anxious Kids; Transition Tips for Starting a New School Year appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Here is our list of recommended reading before the first day:

The Pigeon HAS to Go to School by Mo Willems

Published just last year, this is a must-read in the hilarious Pigeon series. The Pigeon has attitude and personality to burn, but he isn’t on board with the whole going-to-school thing. He vents his concerns with his usual dramatic flair… until he realizes that there is a bus involved.

Amelia Bedelia’s First Day of School  by Herman Parish (Author), Lynne Avril (Illustrator)

Iconic Amelia Bedelia goes on her first day of school. Her classic misadventures show your kids that despite our mistakes, we can still form friendships, learn lessons, and that through it all Mrs. Edwards, Amelia’s teacher offers gentle guidance and an open heart.

David Goes to School by David Shannon

David is not the “sit still and listen” type, to say the least. His outlandish antics are a clear lesson in “what not to do” – which, of course, is wildly entertaining to kids. Author/illustrator David Shannon paints a vivid picture (literally) of David’s over-the-top behavior and the resulting chaos.

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney

In this story, an adorable llama preschooler feels sad after saying goodbye to his mother. Luckily, his kind-hearted zebra teacher says it’s okay to feel this way, and reminds him that Llama Mama will return at the end of the day. This book’s simple phrasing and rhymes make it equally suitable for kids heading to daycare or kindergarten.

Dad’s First Day by Mike Wohnoutka

This heartwarming book turns the tables on the usual “first day” jitters – it’s the dad who’s having them, not the son. Be prepared laugh out loud… and to see a little bit of yourself in the mournful face of Oliver’s father.

Time for School, Mouse by Laura Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond

Remember the mouse from If You Give a Mouse a Cookie? He’s busy assembling his gear and supplies for school, which results in a needle-in-a-haystack search for some missing homework. This book is a quick read, with short sentences and cute illustrations.

Mya’s First Day Of School: A Story About The Joy Of Learning, Friendships, And Fun Adventures. By Francis Davis

Mya loves to learn and explore, and she loves to meet new friends! Will she love school? And meet friends? This lovely book follows Mya as she discovers what it’s like to be a preschooler.

My Name Is Yoon by Helen Recorvits, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska

Yoon likes the way her name looks when written in Korean, but she now faces the task of learning to write it in English, at her new American school. Reluctant to do this, she experiments with using different English words as her name. Yoon’s honesty in the story shows kids that it’s normal to feel uncomfortable in new situations.

How to Be Confident in Kindergarten: A Book for Your Backpack David J. Steinberg, illus. by Ruth Hammond

This book takes your child on a journey through the school day and put a spotlight the importance of persistence in transforming uncertainty into assurance, showing how kids can grow their confidence with each new activity.

As the first day of school draws near, try looking through one of these books (or another family favorite) with your child. If you don’t have access to a print copy, search your local library’s website for eBooks, or do an online search with the book title and the words “read aloud.” Many teachers (and even some kids!) have created YouTube videos with expressive readings of these well-known classics.

The post 10 of Our Favorite First Day of School Books appeared first on The Mabelhood.