First time at elementary school

Voor het eerst naar de basisschool

There comes a time when children have to go to elementary school. A new phase in your child's life and at the same time an exciting development for parents. Haven't quite figured out what to expect or what to watch out for? We've got some handy tips. This way, you'll know how to best prepare your child for elementary school.

Choosing an Elementary School

Most parents start looking for information about elementary schools well in advance and how they can prepare their child. The first step is choosing an elementary school. Which elementary school is suitable for your child, and what should you consider during the selection process? It's best to start your research early. Check out the websites of nearby elementary schools or attend an open day. You can then visit the schools with your child to see if it's a good fit.

Enrolling in an Elementary School: The Earlier, the Better

Parents often underestimate the enrollment time and waiting lists that some elementary schools have. Our tip: the earlier, the better. This way, you can avoid being put on the waiting list. Especially in big cities, it's important to consider the waiting lists and enrollment time for children.

Childcare or Not?

Elementary schools have varying schedules, often differing from school to school. So, keep in mind that there will be days when your child finishes school as early as 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. Many parents are still working at these times, so childcare arrangements need to be made. Will you handle this yourself, or is there an after-school program your child can attend? It's good to think about!

The First Day of School

When the time finally comes for your child to go to elementary school, the real work begins. Going to school for the first time is undoubtedly exciting for many children. Make it a positive experience by involving your child in choosing school supplies and touring the school together. For example, bike the route to school together and schedule a short introductory meeting. This will give your child a sense of confidence, making the first day much less daunting.

Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye to each other for the first time at school is difficult for both parents and children. But you can practice this process together. Especially for children who struggle with saying goodbye, this can be beneficial. Start by having them spend an afternoon or a night at grandma and grandpa's house, or let them play with a friend. Gradually, you'll see that saying goodbye becomes easier. Additionally, some children are already accustomed to going to daycare, which also makes saying goodbye easier.