In the traditional structure of the family, fathers have a unique role. It could be because dad comes home from the office with a booming voice, or that he’s a kind man who loves ice cream and an extra ride on Ferris Wheels at State Fairs. Dad has a very special place in children’s hearts. He can be both the voice for authority and the voice to give wise advice when the children are in need of someone to guide and direct them. Read more?
It is Mom who is at the forefront of every activity, and is responsible for the safety and well-being of the children. Even if the children don’t realize it, they love and appreciate both of these jobs. It may be that when it’s time to get your child ready for kindergarten both parents will play an important role.
Mom is undoubtedly the most important decision-maker when it comes to physical preparations. It is the mom who will often be the main shopper for the family. She can buy clothes, school supplies, and extras to use in the classroom. It is important to get dad involved in the preparations, particularly the mental and emotional ones. This will help the child accept the change.
This is especially the case for dad’s son. A boy will often look up to his father as a hero, because he is brave and can go out into the world and conquer it each day. The father is always the leader of the family, leading them on their trip. He is the one who slays dragons and saves the fairmaiden (mom/sis) while hunting for food to eat (paying in the restaurant). In the child’s fantasy world, dad is an amalgamation of mighty hunter, master warrior and mighty magician. Here are some powerful images you can use to help the little boy see himself as being ready for the big adventure that is going to kindergarten alone for the first.
You can often get dads to take the little ones to school who are a little scared. They know what to tell them to turn their fear into excitement, and motivate them to do well and make dad proud. This is what fathers do in their children’s lives. Why not help your child to navigate this crucial day in their early childhood development by using it?
Very often, dads speak in a unique language to their sons. When dad tells his son, “Get into there and be man”, it may seem harsh to an outsider. The little guy is hearing, “I’m sure you can do it.” If you behave like a man and go to kindergarten, you will be a brave soldier like your father. It is exactly the right words to motivate him to go to his first day of Kindergarten and do well to meet that high expectation and affirmation of his father.