PREPARE NERVOUS KIDS TO RETURN TO SCHOOL

As the new term approaches, lots of children will be worried about going to “big” school or moving up a year. Emma says addressing any issues is key for dealing with change

It’s easy to forget I how scary change can be for children, but cast your mind back, and you may recall that lurching feeling in your tummy as the new term approached.

LISTEN AND REASSURE

If your child is worried about returning to school, or starting at a new one, don’t dismiss their concerns, talk to them. Even if they seem OK, still ask how they’re feeling as they could be putting on a brave face. A year is a long time in a child’s life, and they will have grown used to their previous classrooms, classmates, teachers and routine. Being forced to step out of their comfort zone can be scary, so help them to reframe negative assumptions by providing a different perspective. Talk about how exciting it will be – the new friends they will make, the amazing things they’re going to learn, the new sports on offer or the awesome art classes. Also remind them of other “new starts” they have experienced successfully to show them how resilient they are.

PRACTISE ROUTINES

Make the unfamiliar familiar to build confidence. Take them to open days, so they can see their new surroundings and meet teachers, do a few dry runs of the school run and make a fun day out of shopping for the new uniform. Let your child choose their shoes, coat and bag too; taking ownership this way makes it feel less daunting. If your child had a tough time at their previous school, whether due to bullying or behaviour issues, explain that this is an opportunity to make a fresh start somewhere new. If they are returning to a school where they have faced difficulties, similarly tell them that this is a fresh start, and that you will support them every step of the way. Start your child on the school day routine during the last week of the holidays to get them used to waking up and going to bed earlier.

PRE-PACK BAGS

Finally, pack bags the night before starting school, and make sure they get plenty of sleep. Get everyone up early enough to avoid rushing, and you can give them a calm, confident start.