Starting school is a big milestone for you and your child and its comforting to know you can help them settle
It is only a few weeks until September and if you have a youngster about to start big school you are probably a bit apprehensive about the whole transition from pre-school to proper school. It is totally normal to worry but the truth is if you teach them a couple of things before they start they will fly and get on brilliantly. Here are some of those things and with plenty of time till the big day you can be prepared for you and your child.
- Be kind to everyone they meet- The basics for making friends is by being nice and trying to get along with others though they may not always play the same games. Show your kiddie how to be friendly and discourage any negative behaviour like being mean or telling a pal to go away because they don’t want to play with them. A few social skills will help them on the way to making lots of new friends.
- How to use the bathroom alone- By going to the bathroom your child must be able to undo their trousers or pull down tights or what not. They should know how to clean themselves after using the toilet, how to flush the toilet and how to wash and dry their hands without any messing. Remember you won’t be there to stop them throwing toilet roll around or splashing water so a few gentle reminders on bathroom etiquette are needed here!
- Show them how to have some independence- We know they are only little ones but they do need to have some independence once they start school. Little things like opening their own juice bottle, looking after their lunch box and putting food away after lunch. It really is the best way forward so for the next few months maybe try it at home.
- Explain to them how to show respect for their teacher- Before your child starts school spend time explaining the classroom etiquette so they are prepared for it before they arrive like the importance of listening to their teacher.
- Encourage them to ask for help if they need it- One of the hardest things for a little one to do is to admit that they need help but they need to at times to get along in school. Encourage your child to be honest and if they are struggling to put up their hand and politely ask for help.
- How to focus and sit still- This can be particularly difficult for a child that loves nothing more than running around all the time and then suddenly they are in class and have to sit still for a few hours of a day. Get prepared before they start school and during the coming weeks encourage your child to sit down and do a painting, colour or do some fun activities. This will show them how to sit still for a while and will really help their reluctance to sit still come September.
Hopefully this will help x
Written by Emma, staff writer with www.familyfriendlyhq.ie and Irish mummy blogger. Check out her own blog at emmasmadjotters.com