And So To School...

Here’s how you can help your child adjust in the new environment

The start of a new school year is a great time to re-evaluate family routines and set guidelines to help your child succeed. Going back to school doesn’t have to mean homework fights and bedtime protests. Set homework schedules with your kids and talk about these rules and daily routines before school starts. Then, enforce family rules consistently.

This time often means changes for children - a new year, new classrooms and new teachers. Such milestones in children's lives can cause anxiety, too. Helping children adapt to new situations can ease parents minds and give them a chance to become involved in their children's education.

What stresses kids about school?
A new school year brings that wonderful feeling of having a fresh start, catching up with old friends, and making progress by moving up a grade. But there’s no denying that it can be stressful too. Parents need to understand that it is natural for most kids to feel a mix of emotions, such as excitement and nervousness about whether they’ll do well enough in school this year. Many kids in middle school or older classes may also have trouble making friends, being judged, or being teased.
First Day Fun
Most teachers kick off the school year by introducing themselves and talking about all the stuff they will be doing that year. Some teachers give students a chance to tell something about themselves to the rest of the class. When teachers do the talking on the first day, they often cover classroom rules so kids know how they are supposed to behave. This is a good time for your child to clarify any rule she does not understand. The first day of school is your child’s chance to find her way around a new school, or learn the pathways to new classes in her old school. It's a good idea to note down class timetables.

How Parents Can Help
• Be enthusiastic about the upcoming change.
• Start daily routines that will add to continuity. Let your child become involved with packing lunch or laying out her uniform.
• Encourage them to start their day with a nutritious breakfast. If there is no time, then a glass of milk and a small snack will do as they run out the door.
• In the evening, talk to them about their day in school and check if they need to do any homework.