It’s likely that by now you will have had the opportunity to visit your child’s new school and for them to meet their new teacher or key worker. You may have been offered one or more transition visits and perhaps a parents’ information evening. These visits play a vital part in helping children see the setting as theirs and for you to begin to develop a positive relationship- not only with the school staff but with other parents, too.
If you have been unable to visit the school as yet or cannot make the offered sessions why not contact to arrange another visit? The more times your child can be in the environment, the more they will feel at home and therefore the easier it will be in September.
The importance of making sure children see their new settings as safe and happy spaces cannot be emphasised enough. It is perfectly normal and acceptable for mums and dads to feel an element of anxiety at the thought of packing their most treasured possession off for the day but projecting anxieties onto your little person will do nothing but make them think the school is not a positive place. Hide your worries from your child but address them with the school – fears can be quickly quelled by experienced and kindly school staff. Remember, they’ve heard them all before and are used to supporting anxious parents.
This week’s challenge: Build on what you have already experienced
Photo: Nik Pickard Photography
Lucy Patrick is a primary school headteacher and co-owner of North Kirklees Mumbler.
Read the next articles:
Part II: Independence
Part III: Mind your Language
Part IV: When the novelty wears off