Wellbeing  

Preparing for Change 🌱

Helping children feel safe, confident and ready for what comes next

Change is a natural part of life, but that doesn't always mean it feels easy! Whether it's moving into a new classroom, starting a new school year, making new friends or adjusting to a different routine, change can bring a mix of excitement, curiosity and worry.

For children, even small changes can sometimes feel big. The good news is that with a little preparation, reassurance and support, we can help children approach new experiences with greater confidence and resilience.

💛 5 Ways to Help Children Prepare for Change

1. Talk About What's Coming

Give children opportunities to talk about upcoming changes. Explain what they can expect in simple, positive and age-appropriate language. Encourage them to ask questions and share how they are feeling, reminding them that it's okay to feel both excited and nervous.

2. Focus on What Will Stay the Same

When things around us change, familiar routines and relationships can provide comfort. Remind children of the things that will remain the same, such as their family, trusted adults, friendships and everyday routines.

3. Make Space for Big Feelings

Children may express their worries through questions, frustration, clinginess or changes in behaviour. Listen with patience and acknowledge their feelings rather than rushing to fix them. Saying, “It's okay to feel nervous about something new,” helps children understand that their feelings are normal.

4. Build Confidence Through Small Steps

Practise new experiences where possible. Visiting a new classroom, meeting a teacher, organising school belongings or talking through a new morning routine can help children feel more prepared. Celebrate their efforts, no matter how small, and remind them that confidence often grows with practice.

5. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Remind children that they don't need to know everything straight away. New experiences are opportunities to learn, make mistakes and discover what they are capable of. Instead of focusing on getting everything right, celebrate trying, learning and asking for help.

🌈 A Little Reminder for Parents and Carers

Children often take their cues from the adults around them. Speaking positively about upcoming changes, maintaining familiar routines and showing confidence in your child's ability to adapt can help them feel more secure.

You don't need to have all the answers. Sometimes, simply being there to listen, reassure and encourage is enough.

Remember, every child adjusts at their own pace. Some children embrace change straight away, while others need more time and support. Both are okay!

⭐ Connecting to The 7 Habits

At Le Page Primary School, our Leader in Me program helps children develop the skills and confidence to navigate life's challenges.

Habit 1: Be Proactive – We can choose how we respond to change, even when we cannot control what is happening around us.

Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind – Thinking about what we hope to achieve can help us feel positive about a new experience.

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw – Looking after our bodies and minds through rest, play, exercise and connection helps us manage change and build resilience.

As we remind our students, we may not always be able to choose what happens next, but we can learn to approach it with courage, curiosity and a positive attitude.

A question to ask your child is: " Is there something new you are looking forward to, and what might help you feel more confident about it?”

Together, we can help our children see change not simply as something to worry about, but as an opportunity to grow, learn and discover new possibilities. 💚