Parents need to have new routines for their children ahead of first day of school - clinical child psychologist

One of the common problems parents have with their children is the little ones refusing to go to school, especially if their child is a first-timer.

In Vonne Aquino's report on "24 Oras Weekend," Sunday, child clinical psychologist Dr. Anna Tuazon said parents need to set up a new routine for their kids as they approach the first day of class.

"Pakonti-konti agahan na ang bedtime ulit, bawas-bawasan na ang TV, tsaka simulan na ang pagbabasa, pero 'yung pagbabasa na parang masaya pa rin, 'yung mga recreational, leisure reading para masanay na ulit silang nagbabasa, nagsusulat," she said.

For first-time students, it's important to talk to them and allow them to ask questions.

"'Mommy 'andun ka lang ba sa labas? liwan mo ba ako, gaano ba ito katagal?' l-express na nila lahat ng mga fears nila or mga worries nila na para puwede nating sagutin," Tuazon said.

Tuazon also advises parents to be role models to their children to ease them and not be afraid of their teacher.

Parents can also show their kids that they are talking to their teachers. It also helps to bring their kids to school before the first day to make them comfortable in their new environment.

Incoming kinder pupil Bianca recently visited her future classroom.

"Tuwang-tuwa nga siya eh kasi may nakita siyang mga laruan. Sabi niya, 'Mama, maglalaro ba kami diyan?' Sabi ko, oo, maglalaro kayo diyan minsan," Bianca's mother, Apple Capinig, said.

To lessen Bianca's nerves, Apple talks to her child.

Another mother, Joana Aspiras, said that she is slowly letting her child get used to schooling and teaches her how to treat her future teacher. She also brought school supplies and is teaching her child how to write.

"Sinasabi ko po palagi sa kanya na 'yung magiging teacher niya, parang pangalawang mama niya," Joana said. —Nika Roque/MGP, GMA News