Few things are as unnerving to kids as starting at a new school. Learning to navigate the fraught social and academic world of one school is hard enough. Going to a new school and having to start the process all over again can be scary. What can you do as a parent to make the transition to a new school easier?
If possible, try to scope out the new school with your child before the start date. Let your child explore, locate their classroom, cafeteria, and other landmarks, and maybe even meet their teacher. Taking some of the newness out of the first day will make it less of a challenge. You want your child to show up on the first day completely prepared. Make sure your child has everything they need, from a proper school backpack to pens and pencils. New school shoes and clothes will have them feeling confident in their appearance. Confidence = key.
If your kid is actively dreading the first day, bringing up some of the best parts of the previous school year can help ease the tension. Highlight reel. Talk about their accomplishments, old friends, and fond memories. Relate to them by sharing some of your memories of starting at a new school. Even if it was horrible, they’ll know you got over it.
Encourage your child to enroll in an extracurricular activity of their choice as soon as possible. It can be hard to make new friends in the hustle and bustle of the school day, but extracurricular activities foster an environment that’s more carefree and perfect for forging friendships. Whether they want to play a sport or do theater, your child will be meeting like-minded kids.
If you can, plan something special to cap off the first day. Having something fun and familiar in their schedule is a good way to anchor everything that’s new and unexpected. Try taking them to a restaurant they like or cooking their favorite meal.
We wish the best of luck to all the kids starting at new schools – and all the parents dealing with the fallout of this transition. Remember, it only gets easier after the first day!
