Transitioning to a new school

 

Transitioning to a new school. 


Starting a new school or kindergarten can be exciting and challenging time for little ones and parents so I feel it it best to over prepare for your child’s transition. 


The first day a new school environment is a particularly significant time,however the transition continues throughout the first few weeks as children and families settle into the school environment and become familiar with new routines and develop relationships.

In my experience all children and care givers can benefit from some planning and preparation. Here are our top tips to making the transition to school life smoother:


Make sure your child is familiar with the school

The more your child sees of the school, the less they will worry about the unknown. Ensure to attended all of the planned visits and orientation days in the lead up to the first official day, this will allow your child the opportunity to know the classroom and become more comfortable. 


Talk about your child's teacher

All children need to feel connected to their teacher. Make sure to talk about the teacher in fond and familiar terms and get them to learn each teachers name. 


Ask your child what they think school will be like

Get your child thinking and talking about what they can expect at school. This includes being in a classroom, playing, reading, writing, music and art. 

If you know other children who will be in their class, be sure to mention that they will get to play with them too! Make sure to discuss any worries they may have and answer all their questions. The more information they can have the calmer they will be.


Practise the routine

Gradually ease your child into a school routine in the week prior to school commencing. This may include adjusting bed times, eating during a designated lunch time, putting out their clothes the night before, packing a bag and even practising putting on their uniform, This will make for a smoother transition the first day.


Get them involved

Get your child involved in choosing something that they need for school. They can shop with you and choose their own lunch box, or water bottle. Check that your child can open and use these items easily.  You can also ask your child to help label their school items which will give them a sense of pride and ownership.


Don’t overwhelm them 

I feel like on the very first day there is no need to overwhelm your child with big exciting gestures and thinking it’s you have to get that obligatory ‘first day’ photo, because you don’t. You child will be in their uniform all year, gets photos later. Be calm in the moment, be present and supportive. 


What happens if you have prepared as much as possible and your child is still anxious and upset?

Rest assured that this is perfectly normal. Plan to arrive at school early so you can spent some time looking at school resources and getting in all the hugs. Reassure them that they have their teachers their to guide them and that you can’t wait to see them at the end of the day! 


I’m very lucky my son loved his new private school and I felt very prepared and supportive by doing these previous steps leading up to the first day. 

Good luck mummas

  • Mumma R





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