When the Older Siblings go Back to School

It is back to school season. It can be a very exciting and nerve-racking
time for students heading back to school. But, what about the younger siblings
left at home? This is a trying time for them as well. There are quite a lot
of feelings that could be going through them at this time. It can range from
stress and anxiety to even excitement.

Keep in mind that any change in routine or structure can mess young toddlers
and preschoolers up. Children love structure. And structure gives your child
something they can count on.

This time doesn’t have to be full of anxiety. Here are some ways to make the
transition easier.

7 Ways to Make Transition Easier when Older Siblings Go Back to School

2. Start Preparing your Child Early – Yes, we know this time
   can be scary. But, what is even scarier for a child is not being prepared
   for change when it happens. So, start preparing the younger child for the
   fact that the older children will be starting school soon. Ask the child how
   he or she feels about it. Let the child know that everything will be okay
   and what your plans will be for the day when the older children are at school.
   Your child will find comfort in knowing what’s ahead.
3. Start your child taking Lessons that coincide with their older siblings
   going to school – One of the feelings that your youngest child might
   be feeling is jealousy. Your child might be jealous in the fact that the older
   children will be heading to school to learn. Why not have your youngest child
   start a class of his or her own. There are tons of lessons your little one
   can take. What does your little one want to learn? What are his or her interests?
   Check out your local YMCA, JCC or Community Center for Lessons. Your child
   will love the fact that they can learn something new too.
4. Do something daily just the two of you – One nice thing
   about having the older children away at school is that there is much more
   time for you and your little one. This is a great time to spend quality time
   together. One
   on one time with your child can really deepen your relationship with them.
   Let your child know that you are looking forward to doing something special
   together. Sit down with your youngest and come up with some ideas of how you
   are going to spend this time together. Don’t be surprised if your little one
   is no longer scared and sad about the older children going off to school…..
   but instead these feelings are replaced with excitement. Your younger child
   will probably be thrilled to have some alone time with you.
5. Realize the feelings that the child left behind might be feeling
   – There are a ton of feelings your youngest might be feeling about the older
   siblings going off to school. Be prepared for them and it will make this transition
   for you and the younger child easier. Some of the feelings your youngest might
   be feeling are…
   • Fear
   • Anxiety
   • Sadness
   • Excitement
   • Stress
   • Worry
   • Loneliness

   And these are just some of the many, many feelings your child might be
   feeling. Make the transition easier by talking with your youngest child
   about their older siblings going off to school. Let them know whatever feelings
   they are having about it are understandable and that they can always come
   to you with whatever they are feeling and you will help get them through
   it.

6. Plan the Days out for your Little one – Children love structure
   and don’t like change. When older children go to school and leave the littlest
   one at home that is a change of structure for your little one. It is very
   scary. Adding structure back into their life will help your little one feel
   more secure and less stressed during this transition. They love to know what
   they could expect next. So, plan away….. and include your youngest one in
   the planning process. It will get them more excited about the time to come.
7. Start a School for your Child at Home – Your child might
   feel left out when the older children go back to school. Why not start them
   in a school of their own as well. There are Preschool Curriculums out their
   that are perfect for teaching your young Preschooler at home. Just make sure
   to choose the right Preschool
   Curriculum for your Child. And, don’t forget to name the School. Giving
   your at home school a name will make it more official and special for your
   little one.

Yes, this time can be very stressful and sad for your little one, but it doesn’t
have to be. With a little planning and preparing it can be a happy and
exciting transition for your little one.

Top image by Pink
Sherbet