Wellbeing- Transition Tips

Supporting children through times of transition 

It’s wonderful to see so many students proudly stepping up into their next year level, excited for what the new year brings. However, we understand that for some students, adjusting to change can be a gradual process. Navigating disappointment, such as not being placed with their preferred teacher or friends, can be challenging, and some children may require varying levels of support. These moments offer an opportunity to build resilience and coping skills. Creating a positive and supportive environment is key to helping children manage the challenges that come with new classrooms and social dynamics.

Here are some tips to help your child navigate these situations:

Acknowledge and Validate Feelings

Start by acknowledging your child’s feelings and reassuring them that it’s okay to feel disappointed. When children feel understood, their emotions are validated, which is an important step in accepting and regulating their feelings.

Facilitate Friendships

Proactively support your child in forming new friendships by arranging playdates during the holidays.

Check in with Your Own Emotions

As children become more independent, it’s natural for parents to experience a mix of emotions—pride, joy, worry, or even anxiety. Your feelings and responses can influence how your child perceives change. By being mindful of your own emotional tone and reactions, you can create a positive environment for your child to navigate transitions confidently.

Highlight Positives

Emphasise the positives, such as the opportunity to make new friends and experience new learning styles. Help your child see challenges as opportunities. Discuss the benefits of mixing with different peers and teachers. Remind them that friendships can continue outside the classroom and that break times offer exciting opportunities to connect.

Encourage Expression

Create a safe space for your child to express their feelings in whichever way they feel comfortable—whether it’s talking, drawing, or writing.

Growth Mindset and Personal Power

Introduce the concept of a growth mindset. Explain that by facing challenges with resilience and adaptability, we can discover and harness our personal power. Encourage your child to focus on using their strengths to adapt to new situations and experiences.

We are looking forward to 2025 and all of the learning and new experiences the year will bring!