How to Help Your Child Change Schools

It does not matter if your child is the new kid in town or if they are just switching from one school to another, the first few days will bring you and them some anxiety. The job of a parent is to find ways to help your child ease into making that transition from one school to another. We have five great tips to help you and your child make that move and take some of that anxiety away.

1. When Changing Schools Ask for a Tour
Contact the school your child will be attending and request a school tour before classes begin. Many teachers are on campus before fall session starts, ask if your child can have a brief get-together with the teacher, and ask where they might sit in the classroom.

2. Connect With the School Before Your Child Starts
Ask if the school your child will be attending has some sort of organized welcoming committees or programs to help connect your child with kids their same age. Many schools have PTA's with programs like these so that your child will start school with a familiar face or two.

3. The Buddy System on the First Day of School
Request your child's teacher to find a first-day buddy to help show your child around the school. Be mindful that it is important that your child's buddy be someone who is like-minded. If your child is the shy, introverted type, ask that they not be paired with the football star.

4. Reach Out to Others Before Your Child Starts School
Arrange with other parents to set up play dates early and often before your child starts a new school. School children tend to be always together at school the day of the play date, and the time they spend together outside of school gives them a chance to form friendships.

5. Participate in Activities Before Your Child Starts School
Getting your child to participate in some sort of sports and clubs can offer them the best opportunity to meet others who have similar interest. Many sign-ups happen in the late summer so make sure to look for them.

If your child is not the new kid coming into a new school, they can help to ease that transition for a child who is. Encourage your child to involve any new kid coming to their school in recess activities at school and invite them to an after-school activity.