I'm Not Crying, You're Crying: 7 Mums Share Their Best Tips For Sending Your Kid Off On Their First Day Of School

The one great thing about having your child start school during this crazy state of the world, is that they don’t know any different. They don’t know that regular school years don’t begin with weeks of delays, temperature taking, rapid antigen tests shoved up their noses, and being actively encouraged not to hug their friends all day long.

They don’t know any different, so they probably won’t make much of a fuss. But we know this is not how things are supposed to be - and we feel so guilty that this time has been tarnished for them.

It’s heavy on the heart, isn’t it? We want things to be so perfect for these little people, who are perfect to us. So maybe it’s about thinking of the things we can do, as their parents, to make this transition as lovely as it can be - and the handy tips we can take on to make it bearable for us, too. Here, 7 mums who have been there before, share their tips for making your little one’s start to school as special as a koala bear’s cuddle!

#Tip 1: Chalkboard memories

“Every year we fill in the chalkboard and take a photo next to it. These photos go straight to the fridge and it's so amazing to have these memories to look back on and remember what she wanted to be when she grew up. There are so many you can buy online and some have an array of different questions to help mark that moment in time! Just google it." Michele, mum of two girls and one boy.

#Tip 2: Matching hearts

“I loved this idea that I’m stealing from my friend Sarra who’s son started kindy last year. She drew matching hearts on her and her son’s hand and any time that day that he felt overwhelmed or just felt like he needed an extra boost he could just press his ‘heart button’ to receive love in his heart straight from his mum!" - Fleur, mum of two boys.

#Tip 3: Special brekkie

"Following on from the heart idea which we did also, we would then talk about how many times they pressed it and I even made up scenarios where I pressed it too!

On the first day of school we also organised a really special breakfast, almost like a birthday - and had balloons, and pancakes, and even invited grandparents and extended family around to visit and take photos. It made it really special and exciting!” - Kate, mum of two girls.

#4: Join the P&C

“This is a great step to get the ‘mum friends’ herded up fast - and tap into the wine and social element. Also don't be scared to say hello to other parents - everyone feels awkward so you will be doing them a favour breaking the ice.” Lynne, Mum of two boys

#5: Look for your crew + sign up to class soccer

‘'Join soccer (or the like) even if it’s only for a year, it will fast track you getting to know the other parents. It’s all about building the village around you and the more friends you have as parents the easier your life becomes. I was so lucky to find my friends and I know I'll be friend for life with these girls. Think ride-sharing, playdates and when you're running late for pick-up or have no clue what uniform day it is, you always have a network to support you. Start that whatsapp group and share the love. I also write love quotes on post it notes in their lunchboxes. (Another hot tip - Smiggle do great lunch boxes that also quite a talking point for the kids!)’ - Nadean, mum of two.

#6: Take the day, you’ll need it

“If you are a working mum, and you can, try to take the full day off or work from home. My kids feel better to know I’m around, and it freed me up to grab a coffee with some of the other (emotional) mums after drop-off so you can wallow together! Also, walking around the playground before the bell goes introducing them to new friends with you there also helps!” - Kristina, mum of two.

#7: Practice makes perfect!

"Take the time in the lead-up to starting school to pack their bag together, so they know exactly what's in there and where it is. Also, get into the habit of packing their lunchbox together so that they know what to eat for recess and then for lunch. I also write or draw a little love note as a surprise. Oh - and label EVERYTHING." - Laura, mum of two.

Disclaimer: we only use real parents with real experiences in our articles. If you're reading a story, you better believe it happened, and the recount you're getting is firsthand - and excellent.