My friend, Jen, and her children just held their annual “I can” party. I keep telling myself one of these days I am going to be organized enough to pull this off as well, but it starts all the way back in the fall before the first day of school.

At the end of summer, Jen meets one-on-one with each of her children, and they talk about how they are feeling about the upcoming first day of school and school year. They discuss what they are excited about and what fears they may have. Then they make a list. Together they create an “I can’t” list for each child. It may be something like, “I can’t tie my shoes yet” to more school specific concepts such as, “I can’t read yet.” Regardless of what it is, Jen writes it down. Then the night before the first day of school, her family has an “I can’t funeral.” They talk about what they can’t do yet and why they are afraid of learning it and then Jen hides the box in the top of her closet for the school year. I’m sure you can tell where this is going, but I’ll finish the story anyway.

So last night, they had their “I can party.” Jen pulls the box down from her closet and they read through the lists and celebrate everything they have learned throughout the school year. It is a very tangible, wonderful way for Jen and her children to celebrate their grade specific and kindergarten success.

The first day of kindergarten or the first day of school in any grade for the matter, can cause great anxiety for children. But preparation and planning can make the first day of school more enjoyable for all of you. Simple things like wearing a brand new first day of school outfit or shoes can make your child feel confident and special. Packing a special first day of school treat or a note in their lunch box or driving them to or from school rather than having them take the bus home will also let your children know it is a special and exciting day.

Most importantly, though, is to talk to your children. Make sure you encourage them, build up their self-esteem, let them know you love them and are proud of them regardless of how that first day of school goes. Your child is probably feeling incredible excitement and great anxiety, and the knowledge of knowing you are pleased with them will help to ease the first day of school butterflies in their tummies.

Don’t let the first day of kindergarten weigh so heavily on your child that they are unable to enjoy it. Open the lines of communication and keep them open throughout the school year. Having a successful first day of school and school year begins at home and with the parents. They can’t do it, nor should they have to do it, without your love and support.
Even though you won’t always be able to be with your children – the words that you’ve spoken to them will resonate within their heart and be there to encourage and comfort them throughout their lifetime.

The positive and encouraging words within Thumbuddy children’s books, positive kid’s music, preschool curriculum and soaking music reflecting the comforting promises of Scripture will empower your child to experience kindergarten success and success all throughout life.