The First Day of School From a Kid’s Point of View

As a former teacher and parent, the first day of school is always a big day to prepare for as summer vacation starts to come to a close. My daughter, Lucy, shares what it’s like on that first day of school from a student’s point of view. Now that she’s a senior she shares what she remembers over the years and provides helpful ideas for parents.

The last thing you want on the first day of school is to walk into the wrong classroom. That’s why the first day of 8th grade and walking into the wrong 3rd period and straight back out will never leave my memory.

Author: Lucy Marashian, High School Senior

First Day Emotions and Small Ways to Help

The first day of school brings many emotions for kids. Excitement to see their friends again, anxiety when walking into class the first day, and even stress about meeting their new teacher are just some of the things on our mind. The first day of school in elementary school also draws out much different emotions then the first day of school in middle or high school. Dealing with so many emotions can be challenging for children, but there are some simple things you can do to help make that day a little bit easier.

Something as simple as a brand new back to school outfit or making your child their favorite breakfast in the morning can help brighten their day. Making the first day, or even first week of school fun is essential as it gives your child a good start to their year. It is so important to allow your child to have positive associations with school as it will help them succeed in the future. While each child will have different thoughts and feelings towards starting school again, hearing other people’s experiences may be helpful when strategizing ways to help get your child excited for school.

First Days in Elementary School

On the first day of school during elementary grades, I was super excited to get to go back to school and see all my friends. I remember waking up in the morning to the smell of pancakes and my brand new outfit laid out on my dresser. Although a new outfit and my favorite breakfast were nothing crazy, those small things started off my morning on a positive note and kept me excited for the new school year.

I remember after the day ended I would always talk my parents’ ears off about who was in my class and what I felt about the teacher. To me elementary school was always exciting, and the first day always signified new opportunities and fun experiences to have.

Although I always couldn’t wait for the new school year to start, when my brother started the new year in elementary school, he was much more nervous. I remember my mom buying him his favorite drink at Starbucks after the day ended and seeing his face light up. Especially during the younger years, small actions can make a huge difference when starting the school year. Nerves are hard to control, so having something to brighten up the day is super beneficial when trying to bring excitement to the new school year. Although elementary school is usually exciting, the shift into middle school brings much more anxiety.

First Days of Middle School

My middle school years were changed by the quarantine, so my experience of the first day is much different then what kids are facing now. From what I did experience, middle school is a huge shift from elementary school. Kids have multiple classes and there is a new feeling of independence. Although the shift can be fun, it can also be very nerve-wracking. So many new factors are added, such as trying to find your classroom, meeting so many teachers, and wondering if you have any classes with your friends.

I remember my brother being nervous on the first day of middle school and everything he said in the car at the end of the day. He didn’t like some of his teachers, he didn’t have too many classes with his friends, but he found his classes okay. Having your favorite breakfast will always brighten your day, but it is much harder to calm your nerves when faced with such a huge change. It is so important to help your child find the positive in their day, even if it is just something small.  Eventually, kids will get used to the shift and find that middle school and the new level of independence is super fun. There is still a shift into high school, although not as drastic as middle school. 

First Days of High School

The first day of high school is exciting for many people. There is even more independence, new classmates to meet, and just feeling older. The shift from middle school to high school is not too difficult, the only huge change is becoming the youngest at the school after being the oldest.

I loved high school, but my first days were often spent with me wishing it was summer again. Make sure if you have an incoming high schooler to help them get what they need to be confident, whether it’s a new pair of shoes, a cute top, or some makeup. Take a step back from your child during high school, but make sure to be there for them whenever they need it.  

Final Thoughts

The first day of school will always hold so many emotions no matter what grade your child is going into. The most important thing to do is be there for them. Every child is different, so find out what will brighten up their day and help them step into their class confident and excited. A good first day will propel your child to success through the rest of the year. So, even if you don’t see the need to buy them their new pair of Jordans, think about how they’ll feel walking into school, excited to show everyone their new shoes.