Going to a new school can be a scary experience for any youngster. Use the following tips to help your child make a healthy, happy adjustment:
1. Do Your Homework About the New School District
Most school district web sites have information about how to register your child, along with printable copies of the school calendar, the parent handbook, lunch menus, and more. Use these online resources to get to know the district and your child’s new school. Also, make sure that you complete all of the registration requirements as early as possible. Most likely, you will need to provide proof of residency (such as a lease or mortgage), as well as your child’s birth certificate. Make sure that you have these documents handy, especially if you’re in the middle of moving.
2. Get to Know Your Child’s New School
Call ahead and make an appointment to meet your child’s new teachers and take a quick tour of the building. This will put your child at ease and help you get to know the school.
3. Plan Your Transportation Route to the New School
If your child will be taking the bus, make sure that you contact the school district’s transportation office to find out where the bus stop is located and what time the bus will pick up and drop off your child. Alternatively, if you will be walking or driving your child to school, take a trial run during morning traffic so that you know what time to leave in the morning.
4. Provide Accurate Emergency Contact Information
Will your cell phone or work number be changing? Make sure that the new school has up-to-date information so that they can reach you in an emergency.
5. Provide Consistency at Home
Changing schools is a big adjustment for your child. Make sure that other things, like bedtimes and mealtimes, remain the same.
6. Look for Opportunities to Get Involved at the New School
The more opportunities your child has to interact with his or her new classmates, the more quickly he or she will begin to feel at home. Make an effort to participate in school activities together, schedule play dates with new classmates, and sign your child up for sports and other extra-curricular activities at the new school.
7. Reach Out to Your Child’s Teachers
Once your child has a chance to settle in, call or email your child’s new teacher(s) to find out how things are going in the classroom. If the new school is challenging for your child academically, you may need to spend more time each evening going over homework and helping your child prepare for tests. Remember that this extra effort won’t be required indefinitely, and it can make a huge difference in boosting your child’s confidence and self-esteem.
8. Shower Your Child With Extra Love and Attention
Finally, remember that adjusting to a new school is a significant change in your child’s life. Make yourself available to listen to your child’s questions and fears, and let your child know that you believe in him. Your visible support can make all the difference!
