How you can help kids back to school

THE first day of school can be a daunting experience for any child, but according to the experts there is a lot parents can do to help.

Gold Coast clinical psychologist Cliff Battley says the jump from primary to high school can often be one of the most drastic changes in any preteen’s educational career, but the first day of school doesn’t always have to be painful.

“There are three forces at play when starting a new school,” Dr Battley said.

“The parents, students and the school, so parents certainly can help their kids prepare for what is ahead.”

Preparation could include orientating your child to the new school grounds.

“As a child, stepping into a high school for the first time can seem like a big deal. Everything is bigger, and so are the students,” he said.

“You can help get your child familiar with the new surroundings by taking them there before hand.

“Orientation programs are also something parents can take advantage of.

“Private schools will generally have these programs in place and it is worth asking at other schools.

“If you have someone coming from a primary school to a completely different high school, it is worth inquiring now.”

There were other steps parents could take once school started to ensure their child was supported at home.

“Between the ages of 11 and 18 a child goes through a huge amount of change,” Dr Battley said. “I call them the Big Five — physical, intellectual, emotional, social and moral.

“Not all of this happens over night either, and they are really going to be impacted on all of these levels. Parents can play a huge role in stabilising the child in those areas by providing a platform at home, as long as parents keep these changes in mind.”