http://picasion.com/gl/8TW by Barb Bellesini
Transition can be complex. Last year there were orientation days, ordering books and uniforms, planning, setting classes, pictures taken etc. Teachers will have made resources, planned, set up the room and displays, but most importantly they will have become aware of all the students in their class, average, smart, special needs- at both ends of the spectrum and will have learnt a little about each child.
Now shoes can be bought, maybe a count down is on, or calendar, getting into bedtime routine after holidays. Talk about any fears or feelings, being careful not to put YOUR anxieties onto your child. Have a classmate to play, (new or old), have uniforms and bag ready and named- nothing more frustrating than loosing new jumpers, jackets, lunch boxes, hats, etc so NAME everything that they may take off or misplace, even initial inside their shoes, name any books, pencils lunch bags etc. Listen to their dreams– what are they looking forward to, things that they may be apprehensive about, answering questions as best as possible, reading books about going to school, especially if it is their first year.
If beginning Secondary School, make sure they know how they will be getting to and from school, with routes and bus / train / riding / walking times worked out. Some students benefit from colour coding their books for each subject so they are easier to find.
Check that they haven’t out grown their uniforms and shoes NOW if not just starting out- kids grow during the holidays!!! You may have to take pants, dresses down, or buy new ones!
Talk about ‘self soothing’– things to do to calm down if they are overwhelmed or over excited. Deep breathing, counting, finding a quiet place, drinking water, reading, fidget toys, stress ball, drawing, walking etc. Practise them at home as well. Special needs students may need to work out a place to go and a visual clue with their teacher. Be aware of the signs your body gives you – heart beat, sweating, dry throat, tears etc so you know you need to calm down.
Parents– don’t hang around too long with beginners, even if they are upset, they usually calm very quickly after you have left. The longer you stay the harder it is for all. I have heard one child ask, ‘Has she gone yet?’ and stopped crying immediately!! Sometimes they think it’s what YOU want!! Others have FOMO- fear of missing out- they are imagining everything you are doing at home with other siblings or at work- reassure them they will have time after school- maybe a story, or a cuddle might do the trick!
0 Comments