Children

What's New: The transition from home to school
Making the jump from home to school can be a giant step in the lives of children and parents. While this can be a trying time for both, there are steps you can follow to make the transition a smoother one.

STEP #1 Talk about the child's personality
Your child's teacher is going to become an important part of your child's life. Besides you, that person will be spending a great deal of time, and can be an influencing factor in your child's transition from home to school. Objectively tell the teacher about your child's personality. Has your child enteracted with children his age before? How does your child relate to other children? Does your child enjoy/dislike any particular activities? What are his expectations for school? Does your child have any medical needs? Are there any behavior problems? By honestly talking with the teacher you can prepare her for the special needs of your child, and in turn she can prepare for him.

STEP #2 Describe how your child expresses feelings
When your child is upset, will he keep his feelings inside, verbally or physically express himself? This sort of of information is critical and should be shared with the teacher and school. Once you have told the teacher how your child expresses emotions, tell what you've found helps your child in these situations. That will better prepare the teacher to deal with your child, and make the child comfortable knowning expectations will be the same as at home.

STEP #3 Tell the teacher anything you think is important for her to know
Did you just move to a new place? Is there a new baby, or has their been a recent death in the family? Are you in the middle of a divorce? Do you and your ex share custody of your child? All these and other factors can affect your child's performance in school, which makes it essential that the teacher know what is going on.

STEP #4 What are your feelings?
Lastly, don't forget to tell the teacher how you feel about this huge step you and your child are taking together. Express your concerns, expectations, and how you hope the school can help your child. Teachers are experienced in dealing with this transition and can lend assistance when needed. When you meet with the teacher, don't focus on the negative. Instead express that you are trying to open a door to open dialog and communication. Together you can be a team, one that will help your child.