Teachers' Circle

We're asking parents this question this week, but I thought getting a teacher's perspective would be just as interesting! We'd love to hear your thoughts! :) And if you're a parent, that's even better!

When Your Kid’s the New Kid

He probably didn’t get a vote when you made the decision to move, but he’s the one feeling the impact now. If your child was the new kid in school, how did you help with the transition? What worked -- and what didn't?

As a teacher and mom whose daughters changed schools twice, making sure they are confident and secure is important.  In general they are able to meet any new or challenging situation if they have confidence and know that mom, dad, and teachers are there to understand and help them.

More basic ideas include an early tour of the school to get to know the locations and faces they will encounter. If they are starting the year, make arrangements to take them for a tour and meeting with the administration and teacher(s) if possible. This is usually feasible during the week or so before classes start. If it's mid year, try to arrange an after school session when there aren't a lot of new intimidating faces to distract or frighten them. Let them face the students with more confidence after a private tour.

Go over the school's policies. procedures and opportunities together. Discuss situations that might occur and how they can be handled.

Get the child involved in the activities and clubs he/she has participated in at the former location. Be a parent volunteer and get to know the other parents. Then set up play dates or other activities such as a birthday party, holiday event etc. that brings the kids together.

Compare curriculums from the two schools. Sometimes there are gaps that need to be bridged. Other times the child may be ahead of the class and need additional challenges.

Don't push or demand. Encourage and communicate. Help the child make choices. Learn his/her perspective.

Communicate frequently with the school.  Watch for signs of stress, changes in mood or effort, or falling grades. Share concerns with the teacher and get the teacher's input. Develop a cooperative plan to address any problem. 

Good question!

Sherry

Fantastic tips, Sherry!  Thank you! 

I hope others will add to that!