Dear Families,
Welcome back to a new school year! Starting a new school year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for students, and parents can play a big role in supporting them during this transition. Here are some tips for parents to help their children navigate the new school year:
1. Create a Routine
- Establish a consistent daily schedule, including wake-up times, meals, homework, and bedtime. A routine can help reduce anxiety and ensure students are prepared and organized.
2. Stay Positive and Encouraging
- Encourage your child by focusing on the positives. Talk about exciting opportunities and new experiences the new school year might bring, rather than stressing over challenges.
3. Open Communication
- Keep an open line of communication with both your child and their teachers. Make sure your child feels comfortable discussing any concerns or challenges they face.
4. Get to Know the School and Its Expectations
- Familiarise yourself with the school’s policies, events, and goals for the year. This will help you stay informed and better support your child.
5. Prepare for School Supplies Early
- Help your child get organised by shopping for necessary school supplies ahead of time. This can minimise last-minute stress and make them feel more prepared.
6. Encourage a Growth Mindset
- Remind your child that challenges and mistakes are part of the learning process. Encourage them to embrace setbacks as opportunities to grow.
7. Stay Involved
- Attend school events such as parent-teacher meetings or school orientations. Staying involved lets your child know you care about their education and gives you insight into their school environment.
8. Promote Good Study Habits
- Help your child establish effective study routines, break large tasks into manageable chunks, and encourage regular review of class materials to build confidence and mastery.
9. Support Social Connections
- If your child is starting a new school or class, help them with social situations. Encourage them to make new friends, join extracurricular activities, and practice good social skills.
10. Address Anxiety
- Some students may feel anxious about the new school year. Talk openly about their concerns and provide strategies for managing stress, such as deep breathing exercises or visualizing success.
11. Celebrate Achievements
- Celebrate the small victories and accomplishments your child achieves throughout the year to help build confidence and reinforce positive behavior.
I look forward to working with students and parents in 2025.
Kind regards,
Phoebe George
Inclusion Support Teacher