Is your precious child, who has been by your side for years and whom you have never had to be apart from unless you chose to, about to begin their education journey? Life changes, regardless of age, can be exciting.
To manage this excitement and help both parents and children adapt to this significant and long-term transition, here are some suggestions:
Recommendations to Implement Before School Starts:
- Inform your child about this new situation. When people have an idea about how exciting situations will unfold, they tend to feel less anxious. Explain why going to school is important and the benefits it will bring. However, be realistic—school is not just a place for play and fun.
- Visit the school with your child before classes begin and introduce them to their teacher. This can help make the situation more tangible and ease the adaptation process.
- Include your child in the school shopping process and allow them to pick supplies they like. Stationery items often excite children and can create positive anticipation.
- If you have a habit of reading bedtime stories, as the school start date approaches, consider choosing children's books with themes about starting school.
- Talk to your child about their thoughts and concerns regarding school and address any questions they may have (e.g., where the toilets are, where they will eat, etc.).
- Share your own school memories, but do so in a fun way rather than as advice.
- Introduce school-related topics gradually and naturally. Overloading your child with discussions about school may have the opposite effect and increase anxiety rather than motivation.
- Reassure your child that they will be safe at school, even when you are not there. This can help ease their nervousness.
- Stay calm yourself. Even if you are anxious, try not to show it to your child. A child who senses confidence from their parents will feel more secure.
Recommendations for the First Day of School:
- Accompany your child to school on the first day to make the transition easier.
- Ensure your child meets their teacher in your presence.
- Avoid stepping into the classroom with your child. After showing them their classroom, teacher, and essential school areas, do not linger for too long.
- Do not make the farewell overly dramatic. Instead of saying, "Let me give you one last hug," or "One more kiss before you go," say something neutral like, "Alright, it's time for class!"
- Remember that as long as you are present, your child may not attempt to adapt.
- If your child appears anxious or cries, do not compare them to calmer children. Avoid saying things like, "Look, that child isn't crying."
- Reassure your child that you trust them and that feeling anxious is normal. Let them know that starting something new can be nerve-wracking but that these feelings will fade in a few days.
- Acknowledge your child's concerns and show empathy.
- Tell your child that you will pick them up on time after school ends.
- Be punctual at the end of the school day. If you are late, your child’s trust may be shaken.
- If your child will take the school bus, be there at the end of the school day to introduce them to the driver and ensure they know the bus number or plate. Even if you are present, having them take the bus home will aid in their adaptation.
- Ask your child about their first day, and listen attentively to what they share.
- Prepare the school bag and outfit together for the following days. This can boost motivation and create excitement for the next school day.
Spc. Cl. Psy. Dr. Birgül EMİROĞLU BAKAY
