Diane Bales
Beginning kindergarten, going to a new child care program, or going back to school usually means two things for children: unfamiliar situations and different schedules. Because new experiences are stressful, children may be uncooperative or have a difficult time adjusting, especially with the added uncertainty caused by COVID-19. But smooth transitions can happen with some help from adults. Here are some ways to make beginning or returning to school easier for children.
–Prepare children in advance. Children feel more comfortable if they know what to expect. Before the new school year begins, explain how their day will change. Talk about how the new place may be different from last year. Discuss the safety guidelines being implemented by the schools and why they are necessary.
–Learn the routine. Begin familiarizing your child with the new routine a few days before the school year starts. Try waking up and getting ready earlier. This may prevent your child from being confused, groggy, cranky, or refusing to get out of bed on the first day of school.
–Read about it. Reading a book is a great way to introduce any new experience. Read books about starting school to help children realize that it is normal to feel uncertain and come up with ways to handle those feelings.
–Involve children. Let them help pick out their clothes, pack their own backpack, or choose an appropriate toy to take with them to help them feel secure.
–Talk about feelings. Let your children tell you what they feel about the new changes. Voicing fears and concerns may help children feel more relaxed. Let them know that it’s all right to be nervous, but try to ease any fears they may have.
–Be positive. As a parent, you may feel sad or fearful about your child starting school. But if your feelings are too obvious, you may spoil your child’s enthusiasm for their first day. For your child’s sake, make sure you appear comfortable and confident. Sending him or her off with a hug and a smile will help build positive feelings about the new experience.
–Arrive on time. Get to school or child care a few minutes early on the first few days. If your child is new to child care, plan on staying for a little while to help him or her settle in.
–Keep your pick-up schedule predictable. Before you leave, tell your child when you will come back, and be back at that time. Keeping your promise will help your child feel more secure. Even infants and toddlers will feel better if they can count on you to come back when you promised.
Whether your children are starting elementary school or child care, help them learn how to handle the transition by being calm, prepared, and enthusiastic. Prepare in advance, clearly explain the changes before they happen, and listen to the doubts and fears of your children. With time and patience, your child will become comfortable and secure in his or her new environment.
For more information about child care and development, contact Teresa Adkins at Decatur County Extension, 229-248-3033.
Tips for easier back-to-school transitions
