The first day of school is a big moment for children and parents alike. A few small rituals can turn nerves into excitement and give your child a sense of “I know what to expect.” Here are first day of school activities to try before, during and after the big day.
The week before: start the conversation
Read school stories. Picture books about starting school give children words for what they may feel. My First Day of School: A Story About New Beginnings follows a child named Lily from morning preparation through meeting her teacher and new friends, and can be a good story to read together.
Play school. Take turns being the teacher and student with stuffed animals. This lets children rehearse routines like lining up and raising hands.
Practice the routine. Try the wake-up, breakfast and getting-dressed schedule a few days before so it feels familiar.
Visit the school. If you can, walk around the playground, look at the building or attend an orientation.
Talk about feelings. Say something like, “Some kids feel excited and some feel nervous. You might feel both.” Our guide to helping your child adjust to the first day of kindergarten has more suggestions.
The night before
Pack the backpack together. Let your child choose where things go so they know what’s inside.
Lay out clothes. One less decision in the morning.
Add a comfort item. A small note or family photo tucked into a pocket can be reassuring.
Read a calm bedtime story and keep the evening quiet and predictable.
Go to bed a little early. A rested child faces the day better.
The morning
Keep it calm. Wake up early enough that nobody has to rush.
Serve a favorite breakfast. Good food and a happy start help.
Take the photo. A first-day photo with a sign or just a smile becomes a treasured tradition. See our first day of school sign and photo ideas for inspiration.
Add a lunchbox note. A short message or a small drawing works well.
Say good-bye with a ritual. A special hug, a secret handshake or a silly phrase (“See you later, alligator”) gives a predictable, positive goodbye.
Keep goodbyes short. Long, drawn-out farewells often make it harder. Say goodbye confidently, then leave.
At school drop-off
- Arrive a few minutes early so your child can settle without rushing.
- Stay positive. Children read your emotions, so a calm tone helps.
- Trust the teacher. Teachers are experienced with tearful drop-offs and usually help children settle quickly.
- Don’t sneak away. A quick, clear goodbye builds trust.
After school: gentle reconnecting
Bring a snack and water. Hunger can worsen after-school moods.
Give them space. Some children want to talk right away; others need quiet first.
Ask specific questions, such as:
- “What was the best part of your day?”
- “Who did you play with?”
- “What did you eat for snack?”
- “What made you laugh?”
Listen more than you talk. If they say “fine,” that’s okay; try again at dinner or bedtime.
Expect tiredness. It’s common for children to feel worn out or emotional after a first day.
Celebrate simply
- A special dinner, such as their favorite meal.
- An ice cream walk or a trip to the park.
- A scrapbook page or memory box with the day’s photo.
- A “first day” interview. Ask the same questions each year and record the answers.
If the day doesn’t go perfectly
Tears at drop-off, a rough afternoon or an “I hate school” are common in the first few weeks. Stay consistent, keep routines steady and keep in touch with the teacher. Most children settle in over a couple of weeks. If worries persist, our guide to back to school anxiety in kids offers next steps.
Keep it low-pressure
The best first-day traditions are simple, warm and repeatable. They don’t need to be Instagram-perfect, just familiar and comforting. In a few years, your child will look forward to them.
