Transitions Back to School
Transitions
As summer comes to an end and school starts again students, teachers and parents are getting ready for the changes that come with the school year. The beginning of the school year can be exciting and can also be a time of anxiety for all involved. Everyone has to adjust to a new schedule and routine, new people, and new expectations. It is a great time to think about transitions and how we can help our students get through any transition smoothly.
A transition can be as simple as moving from one activity to another, like going from recess to math or as complex as moving to a new school. Any transition can be difficult but there are ways to help kids get through times of change more smoothly.
• Be Prepared. For big transitions like going back to school getting as much information and all of the things they need ahead of time, will help to ease fears. Getting new school clothes and supplies ahead of time can help get them excited for the start of school. For smaller transitions like getting ready for school in the morning being prepared can help you avoid tension and stress. Have the clothes, shoes and homework ready to go before bed and you won’t be rushing to find them in the morning.
• Talk about it. Share the information you have about the changes and expectations. Give children time to share their feelings and discuss concerns. Listen and validate their feelings before trying to solve any problems. Attend parent’s night, open house and any other events that will let you get to know and talk with the teachers. Stay involved and encourage open communication.
• Get into a routine. This may mean starting an earlier bedtime a couple weeks before school starts, setting some rules about homework time or having a written schedule. If you child struggles with smaller transitions throughout the day having a predictable schedule can really help them feel safe and in control. When developing a routine get your child’s input and give them developmentally appropriate choices so they feel a part of the process and like the routine is theirs.
• Relax and give it time. If you are stressed and anxious your child is going to pick up on this and may be more anxious or stressed as well. Use the opportunity to model relaxation and problem solving skills. Try to be positive and let your kids know that what they are feeling is common and that there are healthy ways to deal with anxiety and stress. Each child responds differently to transitions. It may take some children more time than others so be patient and supportive as your child learns to adjust.
If you would like more information or assistance please call your school counselor or visit our website at www.lfcsmo.org.
As summer comes to an end and school starts again students, teachers and parents are getting ready for the changes that come with the school year. The beginning of the school year can be exciting and can also be a time of anxiety for all involved. Everyone has to adjust to a new schedule and routine, new people, and new expectations. It is a great time to think about transitions and how we can help our students get through any transition smoothly.
A transition can be as simple as moving from one activity to another, like going from recess to math or as complex as moving to a new school. Any transition can be difficult but there are ways to help kids get through times of change more smoothly.
• Be Prepared. For big transitions like going back to school getting as much information and all of the things they need ahead of time, will help to ease fears. Getting new school clothes and supplies ahead of time can help get them excited for the start of school. For smaller transitions like getting ready for school in the morning being prepared can help you avoid tension and stress. Have the clothes, shoes and homework ready to go before bed and you won’t be rushing to find them in the morning.
• Talk about it. Share the information you have about the changes and expectations. Give children time to share their feelings and discuss concerns. Listen and validate their feelings before trying to solve any problems. Attend parent’s night, open house and any other events that will let you get to know and talk with the teachers. Stay involved and encourage open communication.
• Get into a routine. This may mean starting an earlier bedtime a couple weeks before school starts, setting some rules about homework time or having a written schedule. If you child struggles with smaller transitions throughout the day having a predictable schedule can really help them feel safe and in control. When developing a routine get your child’s input and give them developmentally appropriate choices so they feel a part of the process and like the routine is theirs.
• Relax and give it time. If you are stressed and anxious your child is going to pick up on this and may be more anxious or stressed as well. Use the opportunity to model relaxation and problem solving skills. Try to be positive and let your kids know that what they are feeling is common and that there are healthy ways to deal with anxiety and stress. Each child responds differently to transitions. It may take some children more time than others so be patient and supportive as your child learns to adjust.
If you would like more information or assistance please call your school counselor or visit our website at www.lfcsmo.org.