Your child’s first day of class, whether it’s for school, dancing, singing, playing an instrument, sports, or anything else, can be very nerve-wracking for both the child and the parent. But how can you as a mother help your child better prepare for their first day?
1) Knowing the dance studio or school that you’re enrolling your child into is the most important thing you as a parent can do. By visiting and getting to know the dancers, teachers, coaches, etc. you can feel more confident that your child is in the right place. It will also help you be better prepared to answer questions your child may have
2) Talk to your child in depth about what they’re feeling as the first day nears. Reassure them of their fears and concerns and answer any questions they have.
3) Go shopping for whatever equipment they will need. You can make a day of it with your child and it will help to get them excited for their big first day. The more excited for it they are, the less anxious they’ll be. The best way to make your child more comfortable in their class is for them to feel part of it and to fit in. You can do this by helping them to get the same uniform and outfit that the rest of the class is wearing.
4) Try to set up dates to introduce them to other students, dancers, teammates, etc. If you try to get to know the parents, it can help you integrate your child with the other kids they’ll be around. This could help alleviate some of their nerves and anxiety about their first day. If they get the introductions out of the way first and break the ice, they’ll be less nervous about meeting all the new people on the first day. This will also help them better concentrate on the class itself on the first day, rather than all the anxiety of meeting new kids.
5) Arrive to class early to give yourself time to prepare. Try to be there at least twenty minutes before class starts.
