Ten tips to a great start at school
Ensure the children have plenty of sleep. This gives them the best start to stay focused during the day.
Consider the diet of the child for lunch and snack. Not too heavy and low in sugar.
Have a presence of school at home. This could be notes on fridges, awards on walls, diary dates included in family calendars etc. The more the child feels that home connects to the school, the better.
Discuss the school uniform (if applicable) and what day they wear their sports gear. Discuss their involvement in getting ready each morning.
Let them carry their own bags to school. It is all about their ownership of their learning.
Read some of the school newsletter to them. This gives them a chance to talk to you about school events that effect them directly.
Not too many questions at the beginning of the year. This can be overwhelming as children think they need to have positive answers. Wait until they talk to you about their school day. Keep reinforcing how much you value the teacher. They like being reassured that their home and school is strongly connected.
Try to arrive at school on time or at least a few minutes early. This gives the child a chance to chat with their teacher about any pressing matters on their mind.
Always reassure your child that you will pick them up and on time. This reminder just gives them an added sense of security as the school days can be long.
Involve the whole family in discussion about the child’s school. Young children like to feel that school is valued by all those that are close to them.
How do you give your children the best start at school?