Welcome to the 2025-26 school year! This time of year is always so exciting for us at Park West, as we welcome both new and familiar faces into the building. As a parent, starting school can also be nerve-wracking. There are always so many unknowns. How well will my child do at school? Will the teachers understand their needs or get to know all of their special qualities? Will they be successful with their peers? These feelings are natural in new situations, and as adults, we have some ideas about what school is about and what our child’s capabilities are. For a child attending school for the first time, they don’t know what to expect. That’s why we ask parents to join their children for their first days of school.
Teachers intentionally set up the classroom environment to be predictable and welcoming. One way they do this is by choosing simple materials that are familiar to kids. When children enter a new classroom and find materials that they already know how to use, it sends the message that they know what to do and can be successful. These early feelings of success help build self-confidence and a sense of competence that will not only aid in the separation process, but will ultimately enable children to take emotional and intellectual risks at school.
To this end, writing areas are filled with simple tools, like markers, crayons and stickers, that are both familiar and easy to use. They are prominently displayed on low shelves so kids can access them independently.
Those simple writing tools also provide a means of expressing a child’s emotions during the separation process. Many children benefit from a hand-drawn picture of their family or a note that says “I miss mommy!” Holding the notes throughout the day and presenting them later to their beloved adults can be a reassuring ritual.
Sand and water tables have simple tools for scooping and pouring. Even for older children who are returning to school, puzzles and manipulatives are chosen for their simplicity. Just getting acclimated to the space and people in it is enough of a challenge for children at this time of year.
Sensory materials like playdough provide a soothing tactile experience, as well as opportunities for different types of play. Some children may enjoy just squeezing the dough while others might experiment with creating shapes or figures. Many children silently kneed their playdough while taking in all of the activity in the classroom. Playdough is offered on trays, which provide a visual boundary that defines a child’s personal space and materials.
The playhouses are set up to evoke homelife, with play kitchens and baby dolls. Not only do children find comfort in playing out familiar themes of home and family, but they often enact the comings and goings that they are experiencing during separation. Some find reassurance in consoling and caring for a crying baby doll, while others place their dolls in the care of teachers, who will babysit as the “parents” rush off to work, the store or meetings.
As you help your child ease into classroom life, take notice of the items available. If your child seems hesitant, try pointing out what’s familiar to them. “Oh look, they have puzzles just like we do at home.” You could try posing a question to help them make connections between home and school. “Their markers are just like the ones at our house. Do you think they have paper to write on, too?” This could also be an opportunity to reference the teachers. “I bet Kristin will know where the paper is. Let’s ask her.” If you’re feeling anxious, seeking out a familiar activity might feel good to you, too. You could even point it out to your child. “Oh, look, I see cars. We love using those together. Should we build a garage for them, like we do at home?”
Some children need some time before they’re ready to engage and may watch for a while. There are so many ways to be successful at school, and one of them is to simply take it all in.
We look forward to helping each child grow in their comfort and confidence at school throughout the year. If any questions arise as you navigate your child’s entry to school, please don’t hesitate to ask! Both your teachers and I are available to discuss anything that might be on your mind. Please feel free to send me an email or stop by the third floor if you’d like to chat.
Warmly,
Katrina