6 Top Tips for a Fab First Day of School (for Kids *and* Mamas)

With back to school upon us, we’ve got some expert tips on easing first day of school nerves

With the end of summer holidays on the horizon for most international schools in Singapore, it’s time to start thinking back to school, mamas! Whether you’re newly arrived in Singapore, or your little one is starting at a new school (perhaps they’re making the jump from preschool to “big school”?), first day of school jitters are totally the norm.

A good school will make sure both you and your kiddos feel welcomed and supported with a warm community and dedicated teachers. Nexus International School prides itself on its small, communal feel, so we thought they’d be the perfect peeps to provide expert tips for easing first day of school nerves. With an innovative digital approach (they’re an Apple Distinguished School!), a world-class music department and a phenomenal swimming squad, they’ve got lots of ways to keep kiddos engaged and having fun, even beyond the classroom.

Click through our gallery for 6 top tips to ace the first day of school!

Nexus International School, 201 Ulu Pandan Road, Singapore 596468, Tel: (+65) 6536 6566, www.nexus.edu.sg

Three faves in our house are Spot Loves School (AKA Spot Loves Nursery), First Day of School, and Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes.

Check out our comprehensive guide to Sinagpore’s best children’s libraries and bookstores for more, mama!

This could include letting your kiddo bring along a comfort object from home like a soft toy or photograph, or perhaps, if your kiddo can read, inserting a note into their bag or lunch box for them to discover later. It’ll make kids feel more secure knowing home is close at hand.

Even if you’re dying inside with anxiety, for your kiddo’s sake, project a happy and excited demeanour, mama. Your child will absolutely follow your cues; it’s ok to fake it til you make it!

Either practice your selfie skills or have a friend or other parent snap a photo; this is a momentous occasion and you’ll want these memories to last forever. At Nexus there’s actually a first-day-of-school photo booth to make it extra fun for families, how fun is that?!

While psychologists advise against sneaking out (don’t want to create any trust issues, mama!), you don’t want to linger, either. Leaving will help your child get settled so they can start to enjoy school. You’ll find good teachers are ace at distracting kiddos with all the exciting things in store for the first day, so say your goodbyes and take your leave. Children rarely cry, as they’re too busy having fun with their friends and teachers!

If you’re a working parent, make sure to go about your day as normal so you don’t sit and worry. If you’re a stay-at-home parent, consider setting up a play date with your other kids or making a lunch date with a friend to keep yourself occupied. It’s helpful for that first day if you have some plans to keep your mind off wondering what your little one is doing all day.

You got this, mama! And if you’d like to find out more about Nexus International School and their innovative, community feel, click here to book a tour!

Nexus International School, 201 Ulu Pandan Road, Singapore 596468, Tel: (+65) 6536 6566, www.nexus.edu.sg