Changing Schools

Preparing Your Child for Starting School in September: Tips for Parents

As September approaches, many children aged 10-11 are preparing to start a new school year or even a new school. While this can be an exciting milestone, it also brings new challenges for children and reassurance for parents. Understanding what your child might face and knowing how to support them can make the transition smoother and set them up for a successful year ahead.

Potential Challenges Your Child Might Face

• Academic Pressure: As children progress into upper primary or early secondary school, the workload can increase. Some children may feel overwhelmed by new subjects, assignments, or higher expectations.

• Social Changes: Peer relationships are vital at this age. Starting a new school or changing social groups can lead to feelings of anxiety or loneliness.

• Adjusting to New Routines: The earlier mornings, new teachers, or different school environments can take time to get used to.

• Building Independence: Children in this age group are developing greater independence, which can sometimes lead to independence-related anxieties or uncertainty about their own capabilities.

How Parents Can Support Their Children

• Open Communication: Encourage your child to share their feelings and listen actively. Reassure them that it's normal to feel nervous and that you're there to support them.

• Prepare Ahead: Visit the new school beforehand if possible, discuss daily routines, and talk about what to expect on the first day. Familiarity can help reduce anxiety.

• Set Realistic Expectations: Support your child's efforts rather than just outcomes. Celebrate their progress and resilience.

• Foster Social Skills: Arrange playdates or meetups with classmates if possible. Encourage your child to engage in extracurricular activities to build friendships and confidence.

• Avoid: using words like anxiety, unless your child has been diagnosed by the GP or paediatrician they are not anxious they are worried. Anxiety is a clinical term and has to meet certain criteria.

• Establish Routine and Organisation: Help your child develop a consistent timetable for homework, study, and relaxation. Keeping organised can reduce stress.

• Promote Self-Care: Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats healthily, and has time for hobbies and relaxation.

Things to Avoid When Supporting Your Child Starting School

• Overloading with Pressure: Avoid putting too much pressure on your child to perform perfectly or meet certain expectations. This can increase anxiety and reduce their confidence.

• Dismissing Their Feelings: Don’t dismiss or minimise your child’s worries or fears. Validating their feelings helps build trust and reassurance.

• Unnecessary Negative Talk: Avoid speaking negatively about the school, teachers, or classmates, as this can influence your child's attitude and increase their anxiety.

• Changing Routines Abruptly: Resist making last-minute changes to routines right before school starts, as consistency provides a sense of security.

• Ignoring Signs of Struggle: Don’t ignore signs that your child is struggling emotionally or academically. Address concerns early by talking to teachers or supporting their needs.

• Over-scheduling Activities: Avoid overwhelming your child with too many extracurricular activities or commitments, which can lead to stress and fatigue.

• Excessive Reassurance: While reassurance is important, avoid constant coddling that might prevent your child from developing independence and resilience.

• Setting Unrealistic Expectations: Avoid setting unreachable goals or comparing your child to others, which can damage their self-esteem.

Remember, every child adapts at their own pace. Patience, reassurance, and support are key to helping your child navigate this exciting period. With your encouragement, they will gradually find their confidence and enjoy the new experiences that come with starting a new school year.