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Going back to school is an exciting time for children and you can help to get them school ready and keen to learn.
While some kids are excited to go to school and make new friends, other children struggle with leaving familiar surroundings.
Check out our tips to make their transition easier and get them feeling cool for school.
1 Tell them not to worry
Reassurance is vital for kids when trying out new things and school is no different. Should any problem arise in school, tell them the issue can easily be resolved by talking to you or their teachers, reports Standard Media.
Make them feel comfortable talking about things they struggle with and give them the space to tell you what’s bothering them. Communication is key. Don’t trivialise what your children tell you, no matter how ridiculous it may sound.
2 Encourage good behaviour
Inspire your children to adopt morally correct behaviour by encouraging them to follow the teacher’s instructions and school rules. It’s important to reward good behaviour and correct when they go wrong.
Rewards could be anything from extra TV time, playing outside or a fun trip. If you show a positive attitude, they’ll emulate you.
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3 Sharing is caring
Practise sharing with your child at home and encourage them to do so at school. According to Today’s Parent, praising your children for good behaviours such as sharing, positively reinforces the behaviour.
Make sharing fun, by baking some biscuits or giving them delicious snacks to share with the children they meet or play with.
4 Teach them to initiate conversations
Get your children to play games that teach them to initiate conversation. This may include games that focus on make-believe as well as creating situations where they can introduce themselves.
5 Let your child be independent
Praise acts of independence when it comes to using the bathroom, dressing and grooming. Children should be encouraged to take responsibility and be given recognition for a job well done.
According to Redbook Magazine, allowing your child to recognise that they can do things on their own will make them feel empowered and independent, and encourages confidence.
Sources: Standard Media, Today’s Parent, Redbook Magazine
