Welcome September, hello kindergarten! How to manage a child's adaptation in kindergarten?
September is primarily associated with the start of the school year, marking the shift from leisurely holiday
days to the period of transitioning into kindergarten and primary schools. This transition can be a significant
milestone, particularly for parents and their little ones, especially those who are embarking on their first
experience of kindergarten or nursery school. It represents a major step in the child's emotional and social
development, as it signifies their initial separation from the family, adjustment to new routines and rules,
integration into a peer group, the development of trust, and the establishment of new relationships. This
transition is pivotal not only for the child but also for the parents. Adapting to a new environment can be
challenging, making it crucial for parents and educators to work together to make the process as smooth as
possible. The more confident and secure your children see you, the easier it will be for them to adapt to their
new surroundings and circumstances. The initial days in kindergarten or daycare can be stressful, but through
collaboration, consistency, and patience from both parents and teachers, we create an environment that
supports a seamless transition. The key lies in working together and having faith in your child's ability to
handle it. Although there is no one-size-fits-all manual for trouble-free adaptation, given the uniqueness of
each child, we offer some proven recommendations:
• • On your way to kindergarten, engage your child in a conversation about the day's plans and what's
in store when they return, but refrain from making commitments of rewards for a tear-free drop-off.
• Morning goodbyes can involve some shouting and crying, and although it's a tough situation for
everyone, it's crucial to persevere and have confidence in the teachers' ability to engage young children.
• Always bid farewell properly.
• If possible, keep it concise to prevent your child from feeling they could leave with you. Extended
farewells only heighten the emotional tension for both child and parent.
• While customary farewell rituals like waving through the window or sharing a hug can be beneficial,
it's advisable to observe these practices consistently.
• In the event your child experiences a crying episode, display understanding and reassure them that
you understand they may not like it, but you will certainly return for them. Ideally, discuss this potential
situation with your child when they are calm, rather than in the morning, and gather information from the
teacher later in the day to avoid upsetting your child during the morning hours.
• Get information from the teacher in the afternoon. A conversation in the morning hours could upset
yoru child.
• During the adaptation phase, it's common for children to exhibit a reduced appetite or even a
reluctance to eat at kindergarten, which can contribute to increased crying and nervousness. To mitigate this,
it's beneficial to have a small, preferred snack ready for your child upon their arrival.
• Initiate a conversation to delve into their fears and anxieties, striving to uncover their specific
concerns. Once you've identified these worries, collaborate with the teachers to effectively address them,
demonstrating understanding and instilling confidence in their ability to cope, thus fostering their self-
assurance.
• Consider providing a small item or consulting with the teacher to allow your child to bring their
beloved toy, serving as a reassuring symbol of your unwavering return.
• Refrain from scheduling any strenuous post-kindergarten activities for your child, as they require rest
and a tranquil home environment to process any stress.
• Despite the formidable nature of the situation, remain committed to consistent attendance without
interruption.
• Don't abandon the effort prematurely. Consistency, repetition, and the incorporation of rituals cater
to a child's needs, fostering a profound sense of safety and assurance that paves the way for a joyful
experience. Even the adjustment phase concludes on a positive note. It's crucial to recognize that each child
is a unique individual with distinct character traits and predispositions, so avoid imposing restrictions and
steer clear of comparisons with other children. Signs of anxiety or crying episodes may manifest variably—
some immediately, while others may appear after a few days, persisting for an extended duration.
Nevertheless, always keep in mind that your child will eventually adapt, and you'll take pride in the support
you've provided with love and empathy. Your child is in capable hands, and we are here to accompany and
nurture their growth, allowing them to explore the world with respect, in a naturally stimulating and secure
environment.
• Sources:
• KOŽÍK-LAHOTAYOVÁ, B., – OSAĎAN, R. 2021. Adaptácia dieťaťa na materskú školu. Bratislava:
Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave.
• Raabe webinár: Adaptácia alebo ako podporiť dieťa pri vstupe do Materskej školy
• SLEZÁKOVÁ, T. – TIPÁKOVÁ, A. 2006. Adaptácia dieťaťa na školu. Súčasné pohľady na pedagogickú
teóriu a výskum. Nitra : PF UKF.