Going to a new school can be difficult for children, especially if they've lived in one place for a long time. They may be apprehensive about starting their new school, be it a public school or a private school. Or, they may be homesick for the friends they left behind. It's important to know that there are ways to help your children through the issues they're facing.
Help Them Keep In Contact With Old Friends
Your child may do better in their new school if they know they still have a connection to the friends they left behind. If your child is old enough for an email account, help them set one up so that they can keep in contact with all their friends back home. This will help alleviate some of the anxiety your child may be feeling about the upcoming move and their new school.
Find Friends Before School Starts
A new school usually means no friends until they make new ones. That can make a few lonely days at school. If you're moving during the summer or during another scheduled break from school--such as spring break or Christmas vacation--there are ways your child can make friends before school starts.
Take your kids to places where kids usually gather during time off from school. Some good places for your kids to make friends would include local parks, libraries or community swimming pools. The more time your kids spend at these locations, the better chance they have of making new friends before school starts.
Walk the Route a Few Times
Before classes start at their new school, walk the route with them several times. If you have their class schedule, have them do a practice run of what will be their normal school day. Make sure they find the bathrooms, cafeteria and office during their practice run.
This will alleviate stress and embarrassment on the first day because they'll already know where they're supposed to be throughout the day. It's also important that you practice their transportation, as well. If your child will be walking to and from school, walk the route with them a few times before school starts. If they'll be taking the bus, have them practice walking to and from the bus stop.
A new school doesn't have to be stressful. These simple tips will help your child acclimate to their new surroundings, so they can flourish at their new school.