Preparing your child for school

For many children, starting school is an exciting time: being in a structured environment, learning new skills, and meeting new people.To help set your child up for success, here are some things you can do.

How to manage your feelings

Be open about your feelings. It is important to teach your child to name and express their feelings regularly so that it becomes normal and familiar. Using books or charts with feeling faces can help your child identify and express feelings.

Listen actively to their feelings and validate them. The more attention you give your child, the more likely it is that they will open up to you. You should put away all distractions and let them know that it is OK to feel anything they feel (regardless of what you feel).

Rather than avoiding your child's feelings, help them manage them.Coping skills assist us in managing our feelings and coping with stress.Take deep breaths, draw, listen to music, or talk to someone to practice managing your child's feelings.

Concentrate on the good.Create a new back-to-school tradition or go shopping for materials with your child to help them feel a little more eager about starting school.

Making a case for your child

Communicate openly and honestly with your child's teacher about both your child's needs and skills.
If your child is having difficulties outside of the classroom and may require more support during the day, inform the staff.