Ask any parent who’s been there. The first day of kindergarten is a big day, with big emotions. Whether it’s your son who’s scared or mom who can’t let go, there are some things you can do in the weeks leading up to the big day to make that day so much easier:

> Talk it up. Discuss with your kindergartner-to-be how exciting it will be to meet new friends and learn new things. Attend your school’s orientation together or take a tour of the classroom, and try to get together with other children who will be in the class, so he will know at least one person on the first day of school.

> Hit the library. Help your child prepare for the transition by reading books about starting school or other new adventures. One great option is “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn, about a little raccoon named Chester who would rather stay at home with his mother than go to school. His mother gives him a special kiss on the palm of his hand, so whenever he’s lonely, he can press his hand to his cheek to feel his mother’s love.

> Practice their skills. Make sure your child can print his name, hold a pencil correctly and use scissors. Also, help him practice saying his first and last name in a clear, loud voice.

> Go shopping together. When it’s time to buy that backpack, lunch box and other school supplies, bring your kindergartner along to pick them out.

> Curb the drama. Your child might cry, but mom and dad, don’t cry at the drop-off, too, as it will only make it worse. Stay upbeat, help your child get settled, then say goodbye quickly.

> Make the day special. Establish a special ritual for the first day. Pose for pictures in front of the house, or go out to dinner afterward to celebrate. Have fun – this is a big milestone!


Get back to bed

He’s made the transition from a crib to a big-boy bed. But now your son is a regular 3 a.m. visitor to your bedside. How can parents get their child to stay in his bed all night?

> Consider an earlier tuck-in. Doctors say 2-year-olds need 13 hours of sleep, including a nap, while 3-year-olds need about 12; and 5- to 6-year-olds need about 11. Night terrors and sleepwalking are more common when children are overtired.

> Give him a comfy nest. Children should be sleeping in the same room every night, without a TV set. As their imaginations develop, preschoolers feel new fears. Talk about how to make his room feel safe, like adding a night light or keeping the door ajar.

> Be consistent. When he awakens you, escort him back to his room, tuck him in with his favorite bear and tell him he needs to stay in bed. Be firm, but loving.

> Celebrate his success. Keep a chart, and each night he stays in his room without coming out or calling you, give him a star in the morning.

> Talk with your doctor. Regular awakenings can be a symptom of other medical problems, such as sleep apnea.

For more details, go to sleepfoundation.org.

Kelly St. John Regier is a contributing writer.


10 great places to cool off this summer

1. Brea Municipal Plunge, Brea
2. Corona Del Mar State Beach, Corona Del Mar
3. Crystal Cove State Beach, Newport Coast
4. Fountains at Irvine Spectrum Center, Irvine
5. Hart Park, Orange
6. Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park
7. Lake Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo
8. Raging Waters, San Dimas
9. Terramor Aquatic Park, Ladera Ranch
10. Wild Rivers Waterpark, Irvine