As schools across the country get ready to open the doors of education in 2024, an RMIT early childhood expert says children need emotional and behavioural support to ensure a smooth transition into the classroom.
Dr Elise Waghorn says it’s easy to focus on the logistics – new school supplies, shoes and uniforms – but children need supportive adults around them during school transitions.
A crucial time
‘For parents, this is a crucial time to be asking your children how they are feeling about going to school, are they nervous, and what are they excited (or scared) about.
‘Framing direct questions to the child like ‘You look a bit nervous this morning, did you need to talk?’ or ’You seem a bit quiet after school today, did anything happen?’ instead of ‘How was your day?’ gives them the opportunity to open up.
‘Adults need to provide a calm home life for children to ease into school.
‘Avoid any unnecessary stress in their life. For example, you may need to stop any extra-curricular activities in the first 6 months, so the child does not become overtired.
A consistent routine after school vital
‘It is also vital that children have a consistent routine after school, so they do not become overwhelmed, and that they have a well-balanced diet, so they are getting all the right nutrients.
‘Some children may become more emotional before or after school. Parents can help by giving their child time and eye contact, listening and being responsive. What might seem trivial to a parent, can be a big deal for a child.
‘Children might also require earlier bedtimes, as they will become more tired due to the busier schedule at school.
Talking positively about school
In the lead up, parents should focus on talking positively about school and helping to prepare their children by:
• highlighting the fun and interesting aspects to encourage an optimistic attitude towards school. For example, ‘You are going to make some wonderful new friends’ or ‘I bet your teacher can’t wait to meet you’.
• helping to develop their child’s independence skills. Involve them in making their lunch, packing their school bag and getting dressed themselves.
• encouraging their child to talk openly and express their emotions through prompts like ‘What made you smile at school today?’, ‘What made you laugh?’ or ‘Did anything made you sad today?’
‘Finally, each child will approach the school transition differently. Therefore, parents should avoid treating all children the same.’
Dr Elise Waghorn has expertise in early childhood development. Her research focuses on exploring the everyday life of children in Australia and their connection to policy and educational experiences in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Of course they are stressed. They instinctively know it’s unnatural behaviour.