My older son starts kindergarten this fall.  There are lots of tips for kids transitioning from a preschool setting to the “big school” – classroom tours, playing on the playground, reading The Kissing Hand – but what about tips for Mummy’s transition? 

We all know that the first day of kindergarten can be somewhat heart wrenching for Mummy – the sight of her backpacked little person heading off to school like the big kid he has suddenly become.  Also we all know of a sobbing, hysterical Mummy who spends the first day of school being comforted by the teacher; meanwhile her child is happily integrating into the classroom routine.

Chin up, Mummy!  Here are the ABC’s of surviving your child’s first day of kindergarten:

A is for Attitude change. 
Rather than freaking out about the flight of time and your baby bird’s flight from the nest and into the school system, look at it this way: you did it!  You survived the exhausting baby stage, the tantrum filled toddler stage, and the defiant preschooler stage!  You have successfully launched your little person into the world, or at least the school world.  Think of all the adventures to come!

B is for Back to school shopping. 
Who says only the kids get a new first day of school outfit?  Why not pick out something for Mummy?  Even if you are on a tight budget – and who isn’t these days? - never underestimate the transformative powers of a new lipstick or a yummy pair of panties.   

C is for Celebrate! 
On the first day of school, a special dinner and dessert is a must for the whole family.  But, for Mummy’s transition, what can be better than my personal favourite “C” word, Cabernet?  Save a nice bottle for after the kids have gone to bed, raise a glass, and toast yourself and the beginning of a new era.