If the child knows he may receive poor grades, get detention or possibly have to repeat a year, he's more likely to climb on that morning bus. Visit the school. Talk to the teacher, too, so that your child can see that Mom and Dad like this new person, that she's not someone to be afraid of. You might need to do this more than once for very anxious children,'' she says. Supply a map.
Children can worry a great deal about finding their way around a strange place.
Draw a map of the school in bright colors for your child and point out places such as the art room, bathroom and lunchroom. Not being able to find the bathroom can upset a child who is already shaky about new beginnings.'' Tantalize with descriptions. Just for Preschoolers Depart cheerfully. Supply pictures of Mom and Dad. Arrange for a greeting.