Student Support

 Here we are marching into another school year. Some things are fresh and new and exciting, others familiar and friendly. And of course, there is always the unknown! Those who are new to St Joseph’s may be feeling out of place for a little while and even our existing students might feel apprehensive about the unknown and new this year. All very normal but some timely support will help to ease the transition to the ‘familiar’. It helps to be aware of what is happening around your child and tuning into the feelings they may be experiencing. Some things to remember:

• your child is transitioning from holiday routine to school routine. In addition, some will be starting for the first time at St Joseph’s 
• it’s hot
• the current restrictions and protocols around COVID and the practical and emotional impact
• uncertainty around classroom/school routines and expectations
• uncertainty about friendship groups on return/establishing for the first time

Supporting your child might include:

• Avoiding oversharing your own concerns around COVID but answering their questions openly and in an age appropriate manner. Be upbeat but matter-of-fact.
• Establishing age appropriate routines and expectations to assist the transition back to school routines, particularly bedtimes.
• Pre-warning of changing activity/expectations eg 5 more minutes of play before bath.
• Agree on one reminder then logical consequences - eg turning on a screen without permission means no viewing that night.
• When it’s hot and changing from holiday mode, allow for more rest time until settled into routine. Providing healthy snacks, especially plenty of water.
• Regularly check in with your child. Showing genuine interest with lots of listening. Ask questions beyond the cursory, “How was your day?” Instead try,”Who did you play with today? What did you play? What was the best/trickiest thing that happened today (in class / at play)?”
• Talk about tricky times. Ask about how they felt and how they might do it differently next time. This helps to maintain their ownership of the issue. If they are struggling with appropriate strategies, you might suggest some for them to try. Explain that they can control their own behaviour but they can’t control the behaviour of others. If they feel unsafe, they need to tell a teacher.

These are just a few examples of supporting your child ease into their school year. Don’t forget to remind your child of the confidence you have in them to adjust back into this routine. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s transition back to school, please don’t hesitate to approach your child’s teacher. It is best to address any issues early! A stitch in time …