Supporting School Transitions

1. Preparation and Familiarisation

• Visit the School Ahead of Time: If possible, visit the school before the term starts. This helps familiarise children with the environment, including classrooms, playgrounds, and bathrooms, making the school feel less intimidating.

• Meet the Teacher: Arrange for a brief meeting with the child’s new teacher. This can help the child feel more comfortable and make the teacher seem more approachable.

• Practice the Routine: A week before school starts, establish a morning and bedtime routine. Practice the steps like waking up, dressing up, having breakfast, and leaving for school on time. This helps set expectations and reduces anxiety about the new schedule.

2. Addressing Emotional Needs

• Acknowledge Feelings: Listen to the child’s worries or fears and validate their feelings. Avoid dismissing their anxiety; instead, let them know it’s okay to feel nervous.

• Talk About Positive Aspects: Discuss the positive aspects of school, such as making new friends, learning new things, and participating in fun activities. Help them recall enjoyable past experiences at school.

• Read Books About School: There are many children’s books about starting school or going back to school that can help prepare them emotionally by presenting school as a positive and fun environment.

3. Building Social Skills

• Arrange Playdates: Set up playdates with children who will be in the same class. Familiar faces on the first day can help ease anxiety and provide a sense of comfort.

• Role-Playing: Role-play common social situations that may arise at school, such as introducing oneself, joining a group activity, or asking for help. This can help children feel more confident in navigating social interactions.

4. Building Practical Skills and Confidence

• Encourage Independence: Teach practical skills such as opening a lunch box, using the restroom independently, and tying shoelaces. Feeling capable in these areas can reduce anxiety.

• Practice Problem-Solving: Encourage children to think through what they might do in various scenarios, such as forgetting their homework or feeling unsure about where to go. This builds confidence and self-reliance.

5. Communication and Support

• Establish Open Communication: Let children know they can always talk to you or another trusted adult about how they feel. Make time to talk about their day and listen actively.

• Create a Comfort Object: If allowed, give them a small object (like a keychain or a photo) to keep in their bag that reminds them of home and provides comfort throughout the day.

6. Gradual Exposure

• Gradual Reintroduction: For some children, especially younger ones, gradually increasing time spent in similar settings to school, like day camps or group activities, can help them adjust to being away from home for extended periods.

7. Physical and Emotional Readiness

• Ensure Adequate Sleep and Nutrition: A well-rested and nourished child is better equipped to handle emotional challenges. Make sure they are getting enough sleep and a healthy breakfast each morning.

• Teach Relaxation Techniques: Introduce simple relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or visualisation, that they can use if they feel anxious.

How Schools Can Support Children

• Welcoming Environment: Schools should create a welcoming environment with signs, friendly staff, and a well-organized start to the term. Orientation days or welcome activities can help children feel more comfortable.

• Routine and Structure: Teachers can help by maintaining a consistent routine, which provides a sense of security for anxious children. Knowing what to expect each day can reduce anxiety.

• Regular Check-Ins: Teachers and staff should regularly check in with students, especially those who seem anxious or withdrawn, to offer reassurance and support.

• Safe Spaces: Schools can create a designated "calm corner" in the classroom or a designated space where children can go if they feel overwhelmed. This could include calming tools like stress balls, books, or colouring pages.

• Encourage Peer Support: Older students can be paired with younger ones as "buddies" to help them navigate the school environment, feel included, and build friendships.

• Counselling Services: Schools should have counselling services available for children who may need more support and ensure that parents know how to access these services.

• Communication with Parents: Schools should maintain open communication with parents about any concerns or observations, and work together to provide support to the child.

Dealing with Separation Anxiety

• Separation Plan: Develop a consistent goodbye routine to make farewells quick and positive. Lengthy goodbyes can increase anxiety.

• Quick Goodbye Ritual: Have a brief and consistent goodbye ritual, such as a hug, a special handshake, or a few comforting words.

• Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward small successes and steps towards independence and comfort in the school environment.

Starting or returning to school can be a stressful time for children, but with preparation, emotional support, and practical strategies, the transition can be much smoother. By working together, parents and schools can help children build confidence, reduce anxiety, and foster a positive outlook toward learning and socialising in a school setting.