Back to School

arrow: GEARING UP arrow: CHECKLIST FOR THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
  • Is your child registered? When is the first day of school? What time does school start?
  • What time is lunch? Can your child buy it at school, and how much will it cost? Will she need a snack?
  • Have you filled out all the health forms or emergency contact forms that have been sent home?
  • Have any new health problems developed in your child over the summer that will affect her school day? Does the school nurse know about this condition, or is an appointment set up to discuss it?
  • If your child will need to take medication at school on the first day, have arrangements been made for this?
  • Does your youngster know where she is going after school (e.g., home, babysitter)? Does she know how he will get there? If you will not be there when she arrives, does she know who will be responsible for her, what the rules are, and how to get help in an emergency?

RESOURCES

arrow: MAKING THE FIRST DAY EASIER
  • Remind your child that she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
  • Point out the positive aspects of starting school: It will be fun. She'll see old friends and meet new friends. Refresh his memory about previous years, when she may have returned home after the first day with high spirits because she had a good time.
  • Give your child some strategies for coping with bullies. She should not give in to a bully's demands, but should simply walk away or tell the bully to stop.
  • Find another child in the neighborhood with whom your youngster can walk to school or ride with on the bus.
  • If you feel it is appropriate, drive your child (or walk with her) to school and pick her up on the first day.

RESOURCES

arrow: PARENT INVOLVEMENT arrow: IF YOUR FAMILY IS PLANNING TO MOVE/STARTING A NEW SCHOOL
  • If possible, give your child three months' notice before an upcoming move, so that he has time to absorb the news and get used to the idea.
  • Explain the reason for relocating.
  • Familiarize your child with her new neighborhood or home town ahead of time. If it's within driving distance, give him several grand tours.
  • Emphasize the positive aspects of the move.
  • Contact the school your child will be attending. If you live nearby, arrange a day and time to visit. Some schools have established a "buddy system" to help newly transferred students adjust socially.

RESOURCES


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