As a parent, your days are filled with worry about your
children. Having a new administration or moving to a new school can be a
stressful situation for you and your child.
My child recently experienced this. I would like to say
there are no nerves in the process, but your heart fills with worry knowing
your child will be starting from scratch with many new adjustments.
Our principal retired last year leaving behind a mass exit
of staff. With a new school opening within the district, many felt the desire
to transfer. This left my son’s school with a completely new administration and
staff.
Everyone is nervous on the first day, but imagine going back
to a completely different school. Or imagine moving to a completely new school.
Here are some tips to make the transition easier for you and your child.
Meet the administration
The administration is the decision makers on a campus. They
will also set the mood for the teachers within the classrooms. A bad
administration can put some stress on the teachers. Meet with the principal and
counselor before the school starts. Take your child as well so they can see a
friendly face when school does start. Address any concerns you may have in the
upcoming year. Find out what his or her’s philosophies are when it comes to the
school. Ask about school traditions or spirit customs. Become familiar with the
principal’s beliefs and expectations.
Tour the school
Call and schedule a tour of the school before school starts
so your child can become familiar with the layout of the school. Make sure you
visit elective classes and the cafeteria since your child will most likely be
going to those places every day. Go outside and play. It is important for your
child to be excited about going to school so let them see the playground and
play a little. That way they are familiar with their surroundings and will feel
more comfortable about asking others to play on the equipment.
Meet the teacher
Most schools have a meet the teacher day. If yours does not,
call ahead and see if you can schedule a time to meet with your child’s
teacher. It is so important for your child to see their class before school
starts as well as be able to visualize his new teacher. This is a great
opportunity to find out about routines your child will have during the day. It
also gives your child the chance to learn what the school is like before the
first day.
Rehearse the School Process
Have a rehearsal for going to school. Decide if your child
will be driven by you, walk or take the bus. Then do a run thru the day before.
Pretend it is the first day and go through the motions. This way your child
knows the routine. Once dressed, drive to the school and have a picnic
breakfast on the playground. It will be fun for you and your child to spend
your last day before school bonding.
These are just a few suggestions. It is important to be
involved in your child’s school. It will make a huge difference on how your
child views school. Stay positive and hide the worries.
