If you‘re happy and you know it clap your hands 👏👏. We are all clapping our hands with excitement as we welcome our youngest learners to our PS 84 school community. This is an new experience for both parents/guardians and their child alike. The first day of school opens a new door of discovery, exploration, social and emotional learning, imagination, critical thinking, and so much more. The experiences that each child will have this year will form the foundation for their educational journey. While we are just a week away from their very first day, there are many things that can still be done to prepare our young learners for this new adventure.
Having big emotions on the first day of school or even the first few weeks, is a normal reaction many children experience. Reassuring and validating your child’s feelings will help them understand their emotions and transition into this new experience.
As we welcome children and families into the classroom on the first day of school, we must all model the appropriate health and safety behaviors (wash hands, wear mask etc.). Teachers will have one on one introductions with each child and family. These first interactions will support both parents and children in becoming apart of our school community. Welcome!
Preparing for School
Take a walk to the school and explore the outside together. Ask your child about their noticing (colors, shapes, size, windows, doors etc.).
Read books everyday. Reading together with your child models the love for reading while building language and literacy skills.
Establish daily routines. What are your routines throughout the day (morning/breakfast, night/bedtime)?
Foster Independence. Allow your child to do things on their own (toileting, dressing) and encourage them to try something new.
Plan a short goodbye ritual. Keep it personal positive and short (i.e. hug and a high-five) Children have a harder time with lingering goodbyes.