How Parents Can Help Their First-Time School Student Get Off to a Great Start
The new school year is upon us! What better time than now to prepare your child for their first year of school. A new student could use support and guidance, and who better do help with this than their parents!
“It’s very important for parents to take a big role in their child entering school for the first time,” says Jillian Young, MA, LPC, ACS, Program Director, School Based Clinical Services, Intensive In-Community Services. “By being positive and offering guidance and love, the child will be ready to take on their new adventure with eagerness and confidence.”
Here are 5 ways to support your child as they begin school for the first time:
1.Talk to your child about preschool or kindergarten. Make sure they understand they are not being sent away. They are going to learn and have fun and make friends. They will come home at the end of the day.
2. Let them know what to expect. Talk to them about their transportation to and from school, what they might be doing, and who their teacher is. There won't be many surprises if you stay informed.
3. Ask them about any questions they have about school. As it gets closer to the start date, open communication will help ease anxiety.
4. Talk to your child's teacher. Make this a regular thing. In fact, the teacher maybe willing to do a Facetime or Zoom call so that your child can see what he or she looks like.
5. Ask your child what they did that day. Being curious and involved as a parent shows your child that school is not only important for them, but for you as well.
6. If the school offers a new student orientation or a tour consider participating. It can be very helpful to see the lay of the land before the year begins. If you are finding that your child is nervous, perhaps consider asking your school contact if a tour could be an option.
If you feel your first-time schooler is overwhelmed or anxious and could benefit from additional support in preparation for the year ahead, our clinicians are available to help. Call our main number at 844-4-ACENDA (844-422-3632 x9500) for more information about our counseling and telehealth services.
Sources:
www.parents.com
www.empoweringparents.com