Starting a new school can be a huge ordeal for your little one, especially if they don't know anyone there.
And as the summer holidays come to a close, they may be feeling a little nervous about the prospect of starting at a new place and even sad about not returning to their friends.
To help them feel a little better, have a read of the following five tips:
1. Show them the school
Don’t have their first day be the first time they see the school. If possible, ask if they can have a walk around the premises before school starts so they know where everything is – not getting lost will be one less thing that they have to worry about.
2. Don’t constantly ask them how they are
Constantly asking them how they are feeling about starting a new school and making new friends will only keep reminding them of the fact that something big is happening in September. However, that’s not to say that you should totally ignore the fact that they are starting something new, ask them every so often to create opportunities for them to talk about their fears.
3. Remind them about the other firsts they have gone through
Talk about the first time they joined a football club or went to a birthday party without you, explaining how things turned out fine.. These events will help them understand that it is OK to feel nervous and fearful, but things usually turn out fine in the end.
4. Get involved in the school
If possible, volunteer to help out at the school – your child will get comfort from knowing that you are there. You don't need to sign up to be class rep or get heavily involved but just being there to help in the library or even at lunchtime once or twice a week can be helpful to your child.
5. Make sure you have everything signed and organised
Make sure their first day is as free of admin as possible so that they can concentrate on making new friends. Ring the secretary ahead and double check that everything needs to be done is.
