The idea of having new teachers, classroom and friends is off-putting for even for the most extrovert kids. It is never easy to transit to entirely new learning environment, and for some, it may result in social or emotional anxiety and academic difficulties. The kid has to confront the standards of behavior, teacher’s expectations, and social pressure to fit in with their peers.

It’s not only the responsibility of the parents to help the kid handle the school transition, but teachers have an equally important role in assisting students’ adaptation to change by boosting self-confidence. Here are some effective ways to help the kid deal with the new schools, new friends and the new challenges that come with the school transition.

 Source: Ukprogressive

Prepare the kid mentally for the transition beforehand

Discussing future transition before relocating to the new place is crucial for a kid. Asking questions like what they have been thinking about the new school will make them feel included in the decision-making process. Parents must discuss all their concerns and anxiety openly with their child and try to understand them. Explain to the kid how they can easily deal with the new friends and teachers to strengthen them emotionally to tackle the situation.

Provide adequate information about the school

Having the essential information about the new school makes it easier for a child to deal with the new changes. A clearly written handbook concerning school policies, procedures, regulations, study skills, and other details will help the parents to enable the child to handle the situation. A virtual tour of the school is a great idea to introduce the child to the premises of the new school.

Encourage the kid to ask their queries 

The teacher must try to make the child comfortable on their first day by initiating a friendly communication. Persuading the kid to ask or write questions regarding the new setting will help them to open up. Ask the older students to join the panel discussion of the concerns and introduce new students to peers.

Provide a new school orientation and student-oriented program

Conduct an open house for children and parents to introduce them to the staff, curriculum, scheduling, school procedures, expectations, disciplinary actions, and other pertinent policies. A student-oriented program involving activities that enhance students’ social skills and develop a sense of community will be beneficial for the kid.

Teach the positive coping skills 

As the kid is going through a stressful situation, a teacher must have the kid act out hard circumstances and problem-solve ways to help themselves through adversity. Activities and curricula such as role plays, exercises, games, and student care services can help them in empathy building. Not only in the initial days but a teacher must provide the student social support throughout the year and mediate the peer problems.

 Source: Fthmb

The proper collaboration and plan of school teachers, administrators and parents are required to create a sense of belonging in the new environment for the kid. With the right support and guidance, the transitional periods of a kid will turn from stressful phase to an opportunity for growth.