Tutors Field
Whether it is the first day at primary school, high school or changing schools when moving to a new house – the first day of school is usually stressful for both parents and children.
New places and new experiences sound exciting to some children and scary to others. Many kids make friends naturally, for others it is a challenge, so they may need more time to relax and connect.
Preparing your child for school is not an overnight job. It starts early and is easy if you plan ahead. Making nutrition meals, getting all the school supplies ready, developing a daily routine is a good start.
Are your little ones ready for school?
Last year was challenging for most of us and it affected our children, too. Many of them missed out on weeks or even months of preschool. If you worry about your child’s school readiness, take heart.
The teachers are aware of the problems created by last year’s challenger and they are there to help.
You can support their emotional development by encouraging young children to meet new people, pay attention when someone is talking, be empathetic, take turns and share.
By the time children go to school, they are able to get dressed, wash their hands, and eat independently. You can have packed lunches at home, before they go to school, to get them used to a different daily routine.
Some skills, like being able to recognise their name on a label or simple counting, will make the first days at school easier for the children, so read books with them, use labels at home – adding your child’s name to a family calendar or daily chores. It will also boost your child’s confidence.
Knowing that you are not on your own reduces fear and anxiety. Your child will feel happier and safer if they already met other made friends with or at least met other kids who will be in their class.
Starting school now or later?
If you are not convinced that your child is ready for school, you can always wait another year. Childcare preschool programs can help make the transition easier and smoother.
Moving to high school
There is a lot of information about starting primary school. How about teenagers’ transition to high school? We often think that is not a big change, after all, they have already spent a few years learning the rules, expectations, and study schedules.
The challenges they face during transition can make them quite anxious, even if it does not show. Those challenges include not only meeting new friends and new teachers, but experiencing puberty that affects their mental, emotional, and physical health so they will need your help and support.
Helping your children navigate different phases of schooling will always require making time to talk about school, getting involved as much as you can with the school community, and most importantly, making sure that family home is a safe place where the children feel safe, listened to, and respected.
