First Day....What to do??

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2004 : July : 19

First Day....What to do??
By Kteach

Be prepared for a lot of clinging and crying and that is just from the parents!!!LOL I find it is helpful to prepare students and parents as much as possible before the first day of school. The Friday before school starts,
we always have our classrooms open when we are working and welcome parents to "drop by" with their children to take a peek at their new classroom and meet me. We usually just invite them for a limited amount of time because you have to give parents a time-frame. I also send post cards to my students writing them a personal "welcome to my class" note (short and sweet!) They love that!!

I also tell parents ahead of time that I encourage parents to come in and say good-bye in the classroom on the first day only. I let parents stay for no more than 5-10 minutes, then they all leave and it is down to business. The next day, all children line up on the line outside and say good bye outside, then walk in together. I have found over the last 10+ years that routine is very important and the sooner you start, the easier the transition is. I start my regular routines on the second day. The first day is filled with school tours, introductions, learning the rules, getting to know you games, stories and a little bit of curriculum (ie; drawing self portraits, writing names, etc.) I also read; "The Kissing Hand" and teach them a poem that goes with it. They also get their handprint made with paint. I have had my share of criers, runners, wetters, biters, hitters, and you name it...but you just need to make sure that you have another adult with you on that first day to help with any of these problems...if not...good luck!! I have done it on my own before and it is possible to do if you take charge and show that you are in control. If the children see you "lose it", then it is over. I had one girl last year that cried ALL day and tried to run out the door the first week of school. With the help of my Principal, she became adjusted to school and left Kindergarten a very happy, well-adjusted little girl. I only use stickers or stuffed animals as a last resort because if you give to one, you have to give to all. Just remember, these beginning school behaviors don't usually last and you will get through it. Best of Luck!!