Is your child anxious about starting school? I remember when my eldest child started school. They were was so excited. I was anxious... Will they like it, what will their teacher be like, how can I help, do I stay in the classroom? The questions were endless. We had done some orientation but it was still a bit scarey. Together we negotiated the year. They had a wonderful teacher. She was strict, but clear, with us newbie parents and we felt a part of the class. If you're feeling some of my first day at school nerves, have a think about your first day at a new job, or walking into a new group of people. What helps - some knowledge, preparation, confidence, a friendly smile - these will help your child too. Drop them off confidently with a big smile, your confidence will transfer to your child (then meet up with the other Prep parents to express your concerns and try and find answers to your questions).
Knowledge Share with your child what you know about the school, their teacher, the classroom, go over the information you received at orientation. Preparation
Confidence
Signs of excessive anxiety in your child
These may include them continually asking you the same questions; having nightmares; changes in their eating or sleeping habits or other behaviour; crying or becoming angry for no reason; regressing to previous developmental stages such as wetting the bed, sucking their thumbs; saying they don’t want to go to school; and/or showing no interest in going to school. Nothing seems to help If you find these strategies are not helping maybe your child is not ready for school. There is no evidence supporting that starting your child at school early is beneficial. In many cases giving them a bonus year at Kindergarten is the best decision. You may also find it helpful to get individually focused assistance for your child to learn anxiety management strategies. If you would like to be part of the conversation about starting school, and then keeping on going with school for the next 13 years... you are welcome to come and join the Early Primary - Thriving in the Early Years group for parents. It's a long journey and it can help to have someone help you navigate the ups and downs. Comments are closed.
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Disclaimer* My aim is for these posts is meant to useful, interesting and/or inspiring. They are not designed to be used for therapy..
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November 2019
AuthorKim Dunn is a Child Psychologist and Founder of Positive Young Minds. |