Starting school is a big transition for our kids. Some children seem to take it all in their stride. But many find the size of the buildings, the sheer number of kids running around, the ‘new-ness’ of it all, very daunting.
Dr Kaylene Henderson was recently asked to share her advice on this topic on the Today Show.
If you’re preparing your child to start school, here are a few extra tips to consider:
1. Will you have the opportunity to visit the school ahead of time?
Many schools host orientation programs for new students. These can be great for children to attend so they get a chance to become more familiar with the buildings, the classrooms and the routine ahead of time and settle their nerves. Encourage your child to find out where their classroom will be, where the toilets are and where the water bubblers are. The more you can do to familiarise your child with their new environment and routine, the better.
2. Will you have a chance to meet your child’s teacher in advance?
Importantly, will your child have a chance to meet their teacher in advance? A critical step to settling your child into school is encouraging a bond between your child and his or her teacher. If you have a chance to meet your child’s teacher ahead of time, it might help to take a photo of your child and their teacher together. Then you can put this photo on your fridge to help your child’s teacher become a familiar face in your home.
3. Does your child know anyone else starting school at the same time?
The more familiar faces the better! Do you know anyone else whose child might be starting school at the same time? Perhaps you could arrange a play date with them so that they’ve had a chance to meet before the start of the school year. It can really help to know some friendly faces from the start.
4. Role play
Another helpful tip is to role play some of the potentially challenging social situations at home, for example, going to the teacher with a problem, joining in with a group who are playing together, or responding appropriately when another child acts unkindly;
You might even want to practise your goodbyes if you think that your little one will find it difficult to separate from you at drop off. Remember, our children learn through play – it makes sense to teach them new skills in the ways they learn best.
5. Practise all the little things that your child will now need to be able to do independently, such as tying his shoelaces, opening packets or containers of food from their lunchbox and refilling their water bottle.
Starting school is a big change for our kids. And it will be a big change for you too – you’re becoming a school parent for the first time. I certainly wish you and your child all the best as you prepare for this exciting new chapter together!
