Crying, screaming and pleading might be some of the words associated with a child's first day of pre-school or kindergarten.
As children leave their homes and families for the first time to spend their days in an unfamiliar environment of teachers and fellow students, it can be a difficult transition for both the child and the adults in their lives. However, positive reinforcement and preparation can help to ease the adjustment period.
"The nerves don't last very long," said Emily Roberts, a kindergarten teacher at Jefferson City's Belair Elementary School. "After the parents leave the room, there is pure excitement. The kids want to be in school, and they want to learn. They want to soak it all in."
Aubrey Senevey's 5-year-old son, Tristan, will start kindergarten at Fatima Elementary School this month. He is used to being home all day with his mom in the summer, but he attended preschool for a couple of days a week when she was at work during the school year.
Shawna Hillen is another local mother who will be taking her child to the first day of school this year.