Tips on Adjusting to a new school
Moving from one home to another can be difficult for school children, even under the best of conditions.
While Dr. Singrossi deals with these concerns in her private practice, located in Windermere, Florida, she decided to ask her daughter-in-law, Amber Haas, for her insight and expertise on this subject. Amber is a real-estate agent for Keller Williams, Montclair, NJ. She deals with families on a daily basis and helps the prospective buyer find the right home for families, including all the neighborhood amenities. Being a mom herself, Amber knows how important it is for children to transition into a new area and home. Will I get along with my new teacher? Will I make friends easily? Who will I talk to at recess? Will I be behind the other kids? Making new friends, meeting new teachers, learning different subjects and finding new classrooms in a campus that is unfamiliar are just some of the obstacles a new student has to overcome. Amber has some tips on helping children adjust to a new school and how you as a parent can help make this a smooth and painless transition.
Amber suggests getting phone numbers for the local YMCA or Scout troop. She says this is a good place to start. And, don’t forget to call the school. Meet teachers before the first day. Seeing that familiar face on the big day can make a huge difference to your child and relieve a lot of anxiety.
Continuing family traditions is especially important. Show your family that not everything in their lives has changed. It will make them feel safe and secure.
She also suggests encouraging your child to keep in touch with friends from the old neighborhood and school via phone calls, emails or even Skype. Make sure your child is balancing time spent with new friends and time reconnecting with those left behind. Once school has started, encourage your child to join a school activity
For most children, it takes almost 6-8 weeks to settle into a new school. If at all possible, drive him/her to school for at least the first week. Having daily chats about their fears and concerns will show your loving support. Giving them the time they need, supporting and loving them is what is important. And, before you know it, your children will become comfortable and happy in their new school.
Thanks so much Amber. For more questions you may have on making a move an easy transition, contact Amber Haas at: www.yourperfectnjhome.com
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