POLOKWANE – It’s almost time for your children to move on to the next grade. They will most likely go to the next grade with old friends, but what about a child who moved to a new town or city?
Amanda Saville, primary phase head of the department and teacher at Bet-Shalom Christian School was also a member of the teaching staff. ReviewIt doesn’t matter if a child moves to a new neighborhood or goes to high school, the first few days can be filled with anxiety and excitement.
“To start at a new school is always a scary step for learners and their parents. The first and most important thing to establish is a good line of communication between you as the parent and your child’s new teacher. This will help to ensure that you are up to date with what is happening in the school,” Amanda said. Amanda said that parents must support their child academically and emotionally.
“When they come home, check their books, assist with homework, remind them about due dates, be actively involved when it comes to helping them study. Help them balance out their workload as the beginning can be stressful if they are still trying to adjust to a new environment, new teachers and just new ways of doing things in general as every school usually has a different system,” she said.
Amanda explained that it is important to emotionally communicate with your child and keep them informed about their day. “Ask them specific questions about their new teachers, the learners in their class and how they spent their break, just to get an idea of how they are fitting in. Encourage them to meet other learners and make friendships. Check in with your child’s teacher to hear how they are coping in class and getting along with other learners,” she said.
She said that it is important to have a routine. “A regular routine for the morning as well as after school can offer your child a sense of security and familiarity and might help them adjust better,” Amanda said.
She explains that even if your elementary student will walk or take the bus, it’s a good idea for you to accompany them on their first day. “Particularly if they seem nervous, take them to school yourself as it will assist them a lot and make them less nervous until they settle in,” Amanda concluded.
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