Starting a new school is a huge deal for children and parents alike. When parents talk to their children about school they have the potential to ‘normalise’ their child’s first experience of school, aiding a smooth transition to high school, or they could induce a sense of fear about the whole education process and any slight change. Parents’ preconceptions about school and any schemas that they possess from their personal experiences, positive or negative, are incredibly powerful because young children learn about the world around them through parents’ interpretation and teachings. Therefore, it is crucial that parents present a united front and a clear message about school being a normal part of growing up in order to support their children to understand the fundamental purpose and benefits of access to education.
Transitioning from primary to secondary school can be a particularly challenging and unsettling time for children as they face many uncertainties, such as more structure, tests and examinations, the ever-changing peer groups and classes, friendships, relationships and any other issues any ‘normal’ teenager may experience whilst growing up.
As a parent, staying calm and speaking positively of school may foster a positive mindset for both parent and child, reducing any pre-school jitters. Furthermore, during transition between schools, ‘normalising’ and helping to build resilience is instrumental in coping with any such change. More importantly, I would advise that parents offer their children the time and space to talk openly about their day, ensuring that they have somewhere to turn to should they feel the need to share any potential issues, seek guidance or reassurance.
N.B. Extract published in Daily Mail, September 2013 issue.
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