Kindergarten: «Every child reacts differently to entry»

Mr Hugi, how can parents support their child in the first few weeks of kindergarten?

By giving your child confidence. Trust that they will master the new situation of «kindergarten» in their own way, integrate successfully into the kindergarten class and become more independent in everything bit by bit. Children develop at their own pace and not evenly, but often in phases. Sometimes there is a real boost and sometimes it takes a while before the next major developmental step follows.

In most cases, this requires patience and trust from us adults. This also means that we do not do everything for the children or constantly «accompany» them. For example, the children should learn to communicate a wish or concern to the teacher themselves or resolve a minor conflict with a peer as independently as possible. And at some point, this also includes the children going to kindergarten without adult supervision. So in many ways, it's about giving the children responsibility and letting go to a certain extent.

How does the child change after starting kindergarten?

Not all children react in the same way. For most, however, the kindergarten routine is intensive, especially at the beginning, and many children are tired after a morning at kindergarten. This does not always manifest itself as tiredness or sleepiness, but impulsive, difficult or rebellious behaviour can also be an expression of this.

After the initial familiarisation period, most children will also look for and test boundaries. This can manifest itself in rough behaviour or unusually rough language. For most children, there is a certain appeal in testing out what will happen if they behave like this. It is important - both at home and at school - to reject cheeky words or rude behaviour. Over time, this will stabilise.

What should you do if your child doesn't want to go to kindergarten or no longer wants to go?

There are various strategies. For example, you can discuss the daily routine with the child so that there are fewer surprises and uncertainties. Or you can walk to kindergarten with other children and parents. They may even collect the child from home. In consultation with the kindergarten teacher, the child may also bring something from home that offers security and familiarity - such as their favourite soft toy.

It is important to talk to the kindergarten teacher if the child does not want to go to kindergarten for several days without interruption.

You can also let the child know that although attending kindergarten is not negotiable, you are sure that they will soon settle in and enjoy kindergarten. In any case, it is important to talk to the kindergarten teacher if the child does not want to go to kindergarten for several days without interruption. Perhaps there is a reason for the refusal that can be eliminated or mitigated.