The night before the first day back to school is a night full of nervousness and excitement for the student, and probably for the parents as well. Parents can actively prepare for this moment by taking time to discuss the student's goals for the school year. Parents can also ask about the child's fears, hopes and expectations. If the child gets to discuss these things in a caring and comfortable environment, it may relieve some of the pressure he is feeling.
Arriving to school can be a very tense moment for the student. Some students may want to be accompanied, and others may want to be dropped off and left to explore the first day by themselves. If your child feels more comfortable being taken to the door and shown around the school building or classroom, you should plan time to do this in the morning before leaving to work. If being accompanied makes your child feel nervous, you should listen to that sentiment and trust that he will be able to navigate the school by himself.
Debriefing from the first day is as important as preparing for it. While you might have discussed and prepared for the first day, certain expectations discussed might not have been met. Your child might have been disappointed with the teacher or failed to make any friends the first day. Take your child through these emotions and prepare her to be patient and let her relationships develop throughout the school year.
Teachers must remember that children returning to school are nervous and excited. Some may act out because of these pent-up emotions, and others may avoid social contact. It is the teacher's job to break the ice for herself and her students in order to set the tone for the rest of the year. The teacher can do this by introducing himself, showing students around the classroom, passing out a syllabus if the students are old enough, setting classroom rules and allowing the kids to introduce themselves to the class. The first day and even week of day school, in any grade, is an introductory week. Once students become comfortable with each other and the class environment, learning and participating will come naturally.