Psychologist's Advice: How to Prepare Your Child for School Beyond Just Supplies

As the new school year approaches, psychologists are urging parents to prioritize their child's emotional preparation over solely focusing on practicalities like backpacks and stationery. Experts emphasize that managing a child's expectations and addressing their potential anxieties is crucial for a smoother transition into school.

“

Sadness, anxiety, curiosity, or joy – all these feelings are normal. It is important for the child to know that they can talk about them and that adults will accept them.

Child psychologists and educational leaders from the "Saulės gojus" bilingual school highlight the importance of gradually reintroducing a school-like rhythm in August. This includes adjusting sleep schedules, limiting screen time in the evenings, and re-establishing a regular daily routine. For younger children, fostering independence is key. This involves teaching them not only to pack their own bags but also to remember necessary items and understand what should be left at home. Encouraging them to ask for help from teachers when needed is presented as an equally important skill as academic knowledge.

Experts also stress the significance of discussing a child's feelings about the new environment. Emotions such as sadness, anxiety, curiosity, or joy are all normal responses to starting school. It is vital for children to know they can talk about these feelings and that adults will accept them. This open communication helps normalize the experience and reduces the pressure children might feel to suppress their emotions.

“

Both of these messages distance us from reality. School is a place where a child will experience many good things, but will also encounter rules, duties, and responsibility. It is worth talking about this openly.

Parents are cautioned against using the phrase "Everything will be okay," as it can sometimes dismiss a child's valid concerns. Similarly, painting school as either a perfect utopia or a place of fear can create unrealistic expectations. Psychologists advocate for a balanced approach, openly discussing the realities of school, including fun aspects alongside rules, responsibilities, and accountability. Instead of offering platitudes, parents are encouraged to express their belief in their child's resilience. Phrases like "I trust you" or "I believe you can handle this new stage" can be more empowering, acknowledging that adapting takes time but affirming the child's capability to manage the transition.

“

We could accompany the child on the first day of school with words related to our belief in that child. Let's say that we trust him. Let's say that there will be a stage when new things will need to be gotten used to, but we believe that he will be able to.