We all know that summer is the most popular time of year to move. Sometimes a new house means that your child will have to start their academic year at a new school. Here are some tips to help ease your child’s transition to their new school.
1. Visit the school
Contact the administration office of your child’s new school to find out if they have any back to school events planned in the weeks before school starts. Many schools host a “Welcome Back” BBQ or a Meet and Greet. You can also ask for a school tour.
2. Practice getting to and from school
The last thing anyone needs on the first day of school is to be worried about actually getting there! One way to help your child become familiar with their new neighbourhood is to practice getting to and from school. If you live close to the new school, walk to and from it at least a few times. If the school is a bit farther away, practice driving the route or taking public transportation. If your child will be taking the school bus, make sure to visit the spot where they will be picked up and dropped off.
3. Focus on new friends before school starts
Try to meet some of your new neighbours and arrange a few informal get-togethers with other children who will be attending the same school. If you have not met anyone yet, or if you are moving right before school starts, find your neighbourhood Facebook page and connect with other parents who have children in the same school. Those first few days can seem much easier when your child already knows a few people.
4. Talk to your children
Some children handle transitions really well. Others may find transitions overwhelming. Talk to your children about their feelings as they get ready to start the school year. Ask them to share their fears or concerns and then work together to brainstorm ways they can be successful during the transition. Keep those lines of communication open as the school year progresses. It can take weeks, or even months, for children to really feel settled into their new school.
5. Make back to school a celebration
Let your child pick their favourite meal to have after their first day back to school. Set that evening aside to celebrate the new beginning and to let your child tell you all about their first day.