Five Tips To Helping Your Child Relax In A New School

Wouldn’t it be great if parents could wave a magic wand and give their child lots of friends and a life that has no stress it? Yes it would… but people already know that doesn’t exist and, when they have to send their child to a new school, it can be very stressful. When a child wants to make friends, the best way you can do this is to teach them how to make new friends since this can help them get adjusted to the new city.

If you can manage it, meet with the child’s teacher before classes are set to begin. The majority of teachers will be happy to do this. If your child meets the teacher, they’ll be more relaxed when they first get into class. Consider asking them for lunch or dinner and have more than one meeting if possible.

You want your child to feel relaxed in school. Another way to do this would be to visit the school and take a tour. If it’s during the school year, he/she will get to meet other kids. If it is the summer time, the school may have an orientation just for them. Keep in mind that it’s best to go as a family or with the parent so this doesn’t create undue pressure. If your child knows where everything is at when they’re in school, they won’t feel overwhelmed or stressed out.

You should always be there for your child to discussion the joys and fears they are feeling. Not discussing these things means you assume things are fine when they may not be. Get involved by asking questions, letting them know that you’re prying because you care.

You may know the basic skills but if you have yet to teach your child them… they won’t know them. This is the best time to go over them. Teach your child how to look people right in the eye, shake their hands and answer questions when spoken to. You should speak to them about being a good listener including not interrupting or making eye contact when the other person is talking. These life skills can serve your child well both in school and in the future.

Consider setting up play dates to help them remember these things. Take advantage of teaching them the basic skills when you’re out and about too. Make sure you keep things light and like a game so your child is not so anxious.

There is no reason to place your child in lots of activities. However, you can find them something to join that can help them socialize with other children. Look for groups at your child’s school or a local city sport. Make sure it’s something that fits their personality and likes.

Make sure you practice socialization, talk to your child and get them acclimated to their new school to reduce the stress they’re feeling.