With my son starting kindergarten this year, I knew there would be a lot of new stuff, but I didn’t realize there would be so many changes for our family. It has really been an adjustment. I know it’s only 3 weeks in, but I wanted to share the things that we have gone through for other parents who will be experiencing this soon enough.
1. Lots of new Activities
This one may seem like a given, but there are a lot of things that go along with school. It started with an informational meeting last Spring, followed by an Orientation in May, a summer readiness program, and finally meeting the teacher the night before classes started. Tonight, we had a parent information night, next week, there’s an Ice Cream Social, plus there are field trips, conferences, and parties. That’s not even including clubs that you can also sign up for. Did I mention we’re only in Kindergarten?
2. New Behaviors at Home
When talking to my son’s teachers tonight, I felt so proud, but also confused. They told me how creative and bright he is, which is awesome, but then they told me how polite he is. Wait. What? Not that he’s a bad kid at home, it’s just that I think he must use up all his nice, sweet behavior at school. Then, when he is home he just lets loose. I know this is normal and will even out, but right now, it’s a little frustrating. He tests limits, is loud, and is very rough with his brothers. When he does settle down, he sometimes is sad, telling me how much he misses me during the day. He also doesn’t want to miss out on anything me and his brothers do while he is gone. Believe me, you’re not missing anything fun!
3. New Sleeping and Eating Routines
I think another reason for his behavior when he gets home is that he is exhausted. He uses up a lot of energy during the day. He’s not used to being away from home for 8 hours yet, and spending most of that time learning new things. We used to struggle to get him to go to bed by 9 pm most nights. Since school started, 8:30 pm is the latest he’s ever still awake. He doesn’t argue or fight anymore; he is just ready for bed.
As for eating, well, he’s never been a huge eater. However, now I’m not around during the day to monitor, so he’s eating even less. He often brings home part of his snack and lunch. He does buy milk every day, so at least I know he’s drinking something good. Luckily, he does eat when he gets home now. He will have a snack and a couple of glasses of milk when he gets home, and he’s even been finishing his dinner. So, I guess he’s still getting what he needs, just at different times.
4. New Daytime Dynamics
As you know as a reader of the blog, our family has joined a gym. Now, when my oldest gets on the bus, I get the twins dressed and we head off to the gym for an hour or so. We then eat lunch, try for naps, and play for a while until my son gets back home.
In some ways it’s easier because I only have 2 kids to watch, entertain, and chase after, but my oldest did help out sometimes. Plus, I think the twins miss their older brother. I know I miss him. He was always trying to cuddle with them on the couch or trying to settle fights. I think the best was when they all tried to cram onto my lap to read stories.
I guess we’ll just have to make the most of the weekends when we are all together.
5. Making New Friends
Not only does my son get to make all new friends in his kindergarten class, but I’m hopeful that we will make new friends too. I’d love to connect with other families or even just have play dates outside of school, once things are more routine.
My son’s birthday is coming up, and I have no idea who to invite to his party. He has 25 kids in his class, so that is just too many. However, he doesn’t really have any super close friends yet because it’s so early in the year. Maybe one more friends and neighbors party until we get a little better established with the school crowd.
I am trying to get as involved as possible to make those connections, though. I’m going to be helping in his art class, and going on his first field trip. I know there are other parents going along, so hopefully I can get to know a few.
I knew kindergarten would be a huge change for my son, but I didn’t realize it would impact us all so much. I also know that change is good, we just all need time to get used to everything. What were your biggest challenges when your kids first started school? Or, if you’re not there yet, what are you most concerned with?
Don’t worry. I won’t leave you hanging. I will update you on our progress in a month or so.
Oh man I can’t even imagine all the changes, it has to be kind of a struggle to keep up!
Yes, it really is!
Starting school is always a big step for both the kids and the parents!
New transitions, learning new things…..
I hope you both have a great kindergarten year!
Thank you so much!
Glad to hear your little one is adjusting to Kindergarten. It’s amazing how their behavior at home can be such a contrast from how they are at school. My seven year old is talkative and full of energy at home. When he’s at school he rarely speaks and his teacher always comments on how well behaved he is in class. I don’t know what her secret is, but I sure would like to know 🙂
I know! Me too! 🙂
Wow! So many changes in just 3 weeks. My 3 year old just started pre-school and even though she’s only there 2 days/2 hours, I can relate with the changes. It is good and bad, like you’ve said, but they are growing and maturing!
Yes. It’s an adjustment for all. 🙂
It definitely sounds like a huge adjustment! My brother was just like #2 – not that he was a bad kid, but he was pretty mouthy and rude at home sometimes. And apparently in school he was a perfect little model student!
Isn’t it funny how that happens 🙂
This was an interesting post to read! I work in an elementary school and I’m exhausted right now too. 🙂 Hopefully as we get settled, life will start to feel normal again. And hopefully you and your boys will start to find out what normal feels like now, too. 🙂
Thank you!
These are so true! I also think their is something about a teacher and being in a group of peers that makes children behave better. The little boy I nanny always listens better when we are out and he sees other kids doing the same thing (i.e. he won’t sit still for me but does much better when we go to story time at the library.
Yes, I agree. Thanks for stopping by!
Lot’s of changes…. but you will enjoy all the stages… they are all so different – thanks for sharing!!!!!
Thanks Clare!
It’s so crazy to me that Kidergarten is full days some places! Here, it’s a half day (full day is offered, but you have to pay.) My daughter just started preschool this week and it’s only a half day, three days a week-and even that has been quite an adjustment!! It’s finally Thursday and I’m exhausted!!!
Yes, he’s gone from 8 am to 4 pm. I think it’s such a long day. Luckily, he’s older…turning 6 in a couple weeks. Still, I would have loved it to be a half day this year.
I love my kids going to school but hate the school schedule. I literally get no time with them. By the time I get them and take them home its 6pm. Then homework, then showers, dinner, then about an hour of so of family time, then the 5 year old heads to bed, then clean up from dinner, get the 10 year old to bed, blog, bed for me. I love and miss the lazy days of summer!
Awe. I totally understand. I feel that way about my oldest. Now the twins, I still have way too much time with them….just kidding 🙂 Although, it is just such a different dynamic without the three of them.
I don’t have kids of my own but a lot of this rings true from my own childhood! I am sure you will be adjusted to the new dynamics in no time. Good luck! xx
xo katie // a touch of teal
Thank you!
We have a lot of transition with school as well. Still adjusting to our new schedule.
The rhythm of school is always so different from summer. I love when my kids have off and the slower pace of mornings. Sounds like good changes are happening in your son and family!
Thank you!
My daughter just started kindergarten 3 weeks ago as well and I totally agree with you so many changes at once, but we try our best everyday, thanks for the great post, it is good to know that I’m not the only one! 😀
It is good to know we’re not alone in this.
Change can be so difficult for little ones. It sounds like yours are doing pretty well, I read that kids are more likely to defy the ones they trust the most! 🙂 I always remind myself my daughter must really trust me!
Mine too!
Wow, so many changes- and I can’t believe we’re already three weeks into september! Where is the time going?!
I know!
Yes, a lot changes when they first begin school! I believe it’s because they are somewhat influenced by their peers. We always hope for good influences though. Enjoy the journey! It’s going to be fun. My daughter is in middle school now so I remember those elementary days well!
I definitely hope for good influences!
I’ve noticed a lot of those same things this year….it’s so funny how much she will chow down when she gets home (which she normally doesn’t do). Hopefully, both our kindergartners will be adjusted before long 🙂
I hope so! Although, he’s already home sick today 🙁
oh no, poor guy! Forgot about all the new germs! Hope he gets better soon!
I know! He is on the mend…thank you!
I forgot about all these changes since my oldest is 10. Change can be rough for everyone but it sounds like you all are pushing through.
We’re trying! Thank you!
This is all so true!!!! That first year of full time school is such a big adjustment for little ones and mothers alike! I remember days that my son would fall asleep before I was barely out of the parking lot he was so tired. Kindergarten was a real transitional year – although most schools are still pretty high with academic expectations. You’ll make it through. And so will he 🙂
Thank you! Good to hear your experience.
Your oldest sounds like my oldest! Yet when he was away from me this week all I heard was how well-behaved and sweet he was. Before you know it, you all will be settled into the swing of things!
I hope so! thank you!
Ahhhhh. Must be exciting and overwhelming at once to have your child enter kindergarten. I wouldn’t know really because I don’t have any kid of my own yet. Thanks for sharing.
Joua to the Rescue
A definite yes to both. Thank you!
My youngest is awesome at school and then lets it all out. I would have it that way as I dont want bad behavior at school.
Yes, I agree! 🙂
Glad to here your kindergartner is adjusting it’s not easy we have to hope for the best.
Very true. Thanks Patrice!
I have to agree. Their world becomes bigger and therefore they adapt and change accordingly. What I love are the new routines and the discipline that they develop while going to school.
Yes! Thank you!
We’ve had some changes here, too. Just went into the middle school which is completely different from the elementary school. In addition to a Tunmore homework, he switches classes and he’s got a brand-new start and end time.
Wow…those are a lot of changes. Hope you all are adjusting well too.
Isn’t it crazy how kids act when they are in different environments away from mom. I hope he makes lots of friends
Yes! Thank you!
There really are a lot of changes once a kid go to school. More when all of your kids are in school. Everything will be easy though, once you’ve established a routine.
Good to know. Thank you!
Well, this has been a busy time for you with all the changes but I am sure you will enjoy them more and more and look back at this time fondly. 🙂
Yes, I think so. Thank you!
Wow!! I can only imagine how many changes you and your family are going through!! I can’t believe that we are nearing the end of September! Where is the time going?!? 🙂 Hoping for a wonderful school year for you!!
Blessings, Rebecca 🙂
Thank you so much!
Some of the connections you’re looking forward to will be connections for life! How do I know? I’m a grandma now, and looking back at those kindergarten experiences that my own children and now grandchildren have had! Also, as a teacher, I can tell you that volunteering is the best! You’ll be sharing parts of your son’s day that you might never have known about otherwise! I’m so excited for you! Enjoy this precious time in your son’s life!
Awe. Thank you so much. I really appreciate all of your insight! 🙂
I am sure it’s a huge adjustment getting back in the swing of things! You sure do sound organized though!
Thank you!
It’s always exciting to see how your little man is doing in school. It’s great that he is adapting well and meeting new friends. I know when I went to school as a kid I tried to be on my best behavior and then when I got home, I may have been a little wild. That’s only because I was in my comfort zone. Hopefully everything will continue to go well!
That’s so true. Thank you!
The new sleeping routine is what gets to me. I’d much rather my summer schedule!!
I actually don’t mind that he goes to bed earlier 😉
That’s a lot of changes, but it sounds like the transitions are going well.
Not too bad. Thank you!
Oh yes. School changes so much! I’m always surprised just how much it does. Even though my oldest is in second grade! I really shouldn’t be so surprised! Good luck with all the changes!
Thank you!
I don’t have kids yet, but I think they change our lives completely… I will see maybe in a few years 🙂
They definitely do!
I totally LOL’d when I read your comment about “my son, polite?” They are so different in school than when they are home. But, I think I would rather my boys be that way in school than be a trouble maker LOL!!
Exactly. 🙂
Great post! No little ones here yet, but I can only imagine the changes in the dynamics and how quickly everything can shift. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you!
I met some great friends by helping out at school events. That’s one of the best parts!
Awesome. That’s so great to hear!
The new behaviors at home is what scares me about sending my son to school :/ I hope you all settle into your groove soon!
Thank you…me too! 🙂
I am a kindergarten teacher and know how important it is to have polite children in class. That is a huge kudos to you!!!!
Awe. Thank you!
There are definitely lots of changes when school starts. Starting kindergarten is so exciting, too.
Lol remember our kids are comfortable with us. So they let loose and show their true colors when they’re around their parents. not that our kids true colors are ugly they’re pretty beautiful but sometimes I think they hold on to their goodies to give it to strangers. I loved your post very funny your kid is so awesome
Thank you for that reminder, Sacha. 🙂
I remember talking to SO many parents back when I was teaching and it was very common for them to be a little surprised by the good comments we gave about behavior! You’re in good company and take comfort that all the hassles he gives you at home are just for you 😉 and all the good manners you teach are sinking in. Best of luck making party-worthy friends in a few weeks time. I bet he’ll do it. Kindergartners are typically great at claiming friendships early on 😀
Thank you for the encouragement, Brooke. I needed it 🙂
Its the first step on the ladder and it is a BIG change for you all. Best of luck as you continue to work through all the changes. From someone with grown up daughters let me just add, please savor each and every wonderful step and stumble as it goes SO SO quickly.
Thank you! I will!
Yes! My son is only in VPK and my world has been turned on its head. His sleeping schedule has changed, mostly in a bad way because they give naps at school and then he cant go to bed at night! And his litter sister bums around the house asking where he is all day. He loves school, but keeps talking about one boy that isn’t very nice to him… which both breaks my heart and infuriates me at the same time. School is tough! Im a super control freak mom so its SO hard for me to let go of him this much!!
It is hard! We had an issue with one little boy in preschool last year, but it eventually turned around. Hope your son’s sleep schedule evens out too! 🙂
I bet it’s definitely a huge change when one of the kids start school, and I’m sure it will continue to change even more! Thanks for sharing this; it’s super helpful to have for the future!
You’re welcome! Thanks for stopping by!
Day by day it will get easier 🙂 I have fie boys so I know how you feel
Thank you!
So much changes when one thing changes in your life. It’s like staring over to find a new norm.
Exactly!
You’re absolutely right. Starting school changes a lot things in family’s life. This year I have three school kids so you can imagine how my life changed… Next year I’ll have four school kids….
Wow. That’s a lot of changes for your household. Hope everything is going well!
Yes, by now everything fell into place.
Great to hear! 🙂
I remember how crazy it was when my kids were in school…I loved every moment but wow, it can get hectic and adjusting to new schedules takes time, especially for the kids.
Thanks for sharing Shann! Things will definitely get easier!
Cori
Good to hear! Thanks Cori!
So many changes for you and your fam! I’ll be anxious to hear how things are once you settle down a bit. #HomeMattersparty
Oh, yes, the joys of starting school. It is all so exciting, and yet, life will never be the same again. School is an adjustment for the entire family. My suggestion is to go with the flow and enjoy every bump and turn along the way. These are the things that memories are made of. Thanks for sharing and being a wonderful co-host of the #HomeMattersParty – we love having you on the team! 🙂
~Lorelai
Life With Lorelai
Thank you so much!
Wow! So many changes! I feel like I’d be super stressed out if I had to go through all of this with a child.
xo, Caitlin
And Possibly Dinosaurs