Books to Get Parents Ready for the Big K?

Hi K., I can't imagine the day I'll put by little one on the bus for Kindergarten! I'm sure I'll cry! But I have this book, it's not a "coping" book, but a WONDERFUL book about a Mom and son raccoon going to the first day of kindergarten and what they do to let each other know that they are "there" when they get lonely throughout the day. It's called "The Kissing Hand" by Audrey Penn. I LOVE this book and highly recommend it to everyone! They have lots of copies of this book on Amazon.com some are pretty cheap.

This is one of the first steps to "letting go". It's hard for most parents. I put my children on the bus and followed them to school. lol (They knew I was going to do this - and they were glad. That was 12 years ago.) Alot of parents take them the first day - but it's good to be on the bus the first day while everyone is apprehensive. And they should sit in the front of the bus.

One kid in the class when we got there was huddled in a corner crying - (his parents weren't there) and he forgot his bookbag on the bus. (Our buses were still on the lot) So I went out and found it. That kid acted like I gave him a puppy.

God Bless,
L. B

This isn't really what you're looking for, but it's SO sweet. It makes me cry every time I read it. It's called "Everything's Going to be Perfect."

It is usually harder on the parent. I remember I started to cry with my Son and he turned to me and said it's okay mom I will be home soon. I had prepared him for a long time so he would not be a fraid and I turned to be the babling one. I can tell you the joy and difference in them will make you fell better.

I don't know of any books, but I know how you feel. My oldest son is 6 1/2 y/o & will be starting 1st grade in the fall. He attended private school for kindergarten so he could go half day for one more year. I also have a 2 y/o boy. I'm not sure what to do when my 6 1/2 y/o goes to 'real school' & is gone all day. I don't think my 2 y/o will take it well as I'm not as much fun to play with as his big brother & I have a small sewing business to run at home (Remember Me Preemie).

God Bless!

Oh I also remember dreading that first day of school. I took pictures of him by the bus and when it pulled away I stood there and cried for awhile. I think that it is hard to believe they grow up and so fast. I read the book "The Kissing Hand" to him several nights before the big day and it helped both of us with the separation. Silly but because we both held onto each others kiss all day long, when we were not together. He is now 9 and going through 9 year old issues he is still that same sweet boy.

Oh my goodness. I am in exactly the same place as you. my oldest daughter is going off to Kindergarden and I couldn't stop crying after kindergarden round up! I also have a 7 month old daughter. My girls are my whole world.. we should get together!! Maybe we can help each other cope via email when they go off to school!!!

Hi K.!

I'm a G. and I know you must be think oh, God, a know-it-all! I'm not. I'm still learning - just like you.

What I want to share with you is it's okay to feel bittersweet. Just know that you don't need any book to get your kids ready for school. The main thing is that they know you love them and will be there for them when they need you.

This may be a "bittersweet" time for you, but just know that your kids are going to enjoy school so much - although they may not admit it to you! And, that their growing up days - which include school - will bring much enjoyment to you.

Suggestions - Don't read books about other people's kids - get to know your own even better. keep them involved - and stay involved with them. Stay interested in their lives. And, always keep the lines of communication open.

G.
(My kids are in their 30s; grandkids range in age from 9 - 24. Two are teenagers, another will be driving within the year, one is in the military and the other is ALL BOY!