Preparing for the First Day of School
Waldorf education models rhythm, repetition, and reverence for children. With a healthy rhythm, a child knows what to expect and can relax and feel secure. Through repetition, a child’s day unfolds predictably, like the seasons of the year: energetic activity happens in the morning (springtime), noontime brings the nourishment and warmth of a meal (summer), rest for young children and focused work for older students quiets things down in the afternoon (autumn), and evening is time to go inward with oneself and one’s family and prepare to sleep (winter). Reverence is cultivated in a Waldorf school as we uphold the values of truth, beauty, and goodness, pay attention to details, and move at an intentional, child-friendly pace.
Out of these principles, as we look forward to reuniting on campus, we want to share some tips for ensuring a calm, successful first day –and first weeks – of school. Here’s a guide for all ages, including parents!
Adjust bedtime and wake-up times. It takes at least a few days to reset to school-year schedules. Start shifting your sleep patterns now and stay consistent so that you and your children have time to acclimatize. You may find that your children are more tired on school days, especially at the start of the year and as Fall weather sets in.
Re-stock school supplies and gear. Check that your child has a backpack, lunch bag, pencil case, rain and snow gear, as well as comfortable, well-fitting, school-appropriate clothing and shoes, and anything else your child’s teacher has requested.
Reduce media usage. If your child uses electronic media, begin reducing screen time now in preparation for school. At the Waldorf School of Philadelphia, we ask that students not use screens during the week and have limited access to media on weekends.
Create morning and afternoon rhythms at home. Develop a morning schedule that’s realistic and relaxed, with time for breakfast, getting dressed, and getting to school on time (even a little early in the first few weeks). When your child gets home from school, make sure that they have a healthy snack and time to unwind before chores, homework if they are older, and dinner. Consider posting a schedule (with simple drawings or colors for little ones) in a place that everyone can see.
Calm children’s nerves. Children want to know what to expect. Describe what the first day will look like. Let them know that you and their teachers are excited and will be there to answer any questions. Do your best to have a slow day at home the day before school starts, with time to be together and prepare internally for a change in rhythm. Plan for an early dinner and make sure everyone gets to bed on time.
Remember that children of different ages need different approaches. For young children, less is more. If you can, shop for school supplies without your child and show them their new things at home, including their lunch bag and backpack. Have them try on all clothing before school starts, and help them learn to use zippers, buttons, etc. if they don’t already know how. Remember that young children adapt more easily than adults to new situations. When you drop your child at school, offer an encouraging word and a hug, and leave calmly, without too much conversation. Know that teachers are there to comfort your child and integrate them into the rhythm of the day. Your child will adjust with enthusiasm to their new environment and their classmates – and will do so more quickly if you maintain a confident and relaxed attitude.
Lower School students who are returning to the same teacher and peers will find that their classrooms will be stocked with familiar materials, from morning lesson books to beeswax and paints. Like their Lower School peers, some Middle School students will be returning to familiar faces, places, and rhythms. But the social-emotional ups and downs of adolescence may make them feel more anxious than in previous years. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know tumultuous emotions are common, and that other students are likely experiencing uncertainty too. For all students in grades 1-8, including those who are new and will be warmly welcomed into the class, the positive attitude of parents and caregivers can make all the difference. Listen to your children, let them express their emotions, and make time to help them develop concrete plans for navigating situations that feel new or challenging.
A few last encouragements: Enjoy these last days of summer together. In doing so, you’ll build memories that will support your child’s and your own resilience and sense of ease and contentment. Be sure to check our calendar for the specific start date for your child. Reach out to your child’s teacher with questions about the class or to school administration with questions about schoolwide policies or procedures.
We can’t wait to see all of you. It’s going to be a great year!