I receive a daily e-mail called “Jim’s Daily Awakenings“. I find that his “Daily Awakenings” are practical for everyday life and packed with no nonsense wisdom. Oh, and they’re short and always seem to be very well timed. My boys start school on Monday, and the tears have already started. So Jim’s Daily Awakening about “Starting School” was perfect timing! It helped me, so I wanted to share.

Jim’s Daily Awakenings for August 15th:

“When children start school for the first time, it is a major milestone for them.  School is the major place outside the home where children experience successes or failures, rewards or embarrassments.

In addition to academics, children learn about social interaction, how unlike their family system the world is, and about their strengths and weaknesses.

Starting school can be very stressful for children.  It can also be anxiety producing for parents, which indirectly adds to the child’s nervousness.

Here are some things parents can do to help their young children transition into school:

1. Show interest and enthusiasm.  Be supportive of the child, the teacher, and the school.

2. Talk to the child about what to expect; i.e., schedule, activities, other children, etc.

3. Visit the school before it starts, familiarize him or her with the school’s layout, and introduce the child to the teacher and principal.

4. Let your child know it’s normal to feel nervous about being away from parents.  It’s probably all right for the child to take a small, familiar object to school for day one.

5. Make the purchasing of school clothes and supplies a fun ritual.  Lay out all the supplies and clothes the night before school begins.

6. Pray with your child before dropping him or her off for school.”

I started to implement all of these practical tips, and, of course, I got right on number 5!

You can see our purchases above. The Gap had some really great fleece jogger/athletic pants that my boys loved. They didn’t want to take them off! I liked that they came in at the ankle, so they were more sliming and not so baggy looking. Then there were these jogger sweats they saw and loved, so we bought those for when it’s not as cold. I was excited to find my older boy some long sleeve shirts with a pocket accent and a rugby look that were more “big boy”. We bought a cute t-shirt that was on sale and a “courage” t-shirt, because I couldn’t pass it up. Then I bought another pair of grey joggers because they were so so soft. Hmmmm, does someone like joggers for boys? Ha! I had already purchased the grey collared shirt and tennis shoes during the #NSale!

Well, one practical tip is checked off the list! On a side note, what was I thinking taking two boys to the mall to “shop”?!?! They were banshees! HAHAHAHA! Don’t worry, I’m going to nail all the other tips. Do you like that confidence? It’s not real. But I’ll do my best.