Anxious child's first week in school

[Anonymous]

We have a very anxious 6-yr old starting 1st grade in the MCPS system. He has been very teary-eyed and so nervous that it breaks my heart. He only knew one boy in his class prior to the start of school, so it's been a tough week for him (and us) so far. Just looking for some reassurance from other moms/dads that this too shall pass.

[Anonymous]

Did he go to that school for K? Or is he new to the school? Can you talk to his teacher so she understands the situation?

[Anonymous]

My middle child had a very difficult transition into kindergarten and again into first grade. I heard from the teachers that this is normal. It takes some kids awhile to get adjusted. But, it happens. When you have the opportunity to go to the school to observe or volunteer for a field trip, you'll see that most kids really thrive in school. Hang in there and know that many of us have kids that go through rough transitions but few have kids who don't adjust in pretty short order.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the question. This is his first year at the school and he has always been an anxious boy. We spoke to the guidance counselor who will keep an eye on him, but I wish there was something more we could do for him.

[Anonymous]

Hang in there! I too have an anxious child who was really really nervous to start school, which made my heart hurt for him. We live in DC, so he started last week and he loves it! I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop, but he seems really happy. There have been a few bumps in the road due to his anxiety (e.g., he was terrified the day they stopped letting the parents walk them all the way to their classroom). But he's getting more confident every day. So, good luck and remember that he may surprise you (and himself!).

[Anonymous]

How's he doing, OP? I also have an anxious 6yo boy, even worse because his anxieties sometimes prompt him to act out. The transition to K was brutal even though he'd been in FT daycare. He was very nervous again this week but came home on day 1 saying everything was "great" - and adding his surprise that so far it's just like K. That doesn't necessarily help you, I know, but just remember that every year will be so much easier after this one. Good luck!