As parents and teachers, we want our students to feel comfortable at school so they can enjoy a positive learning experience. For many children, however, a school can be a socially or academically intimidating place. Whether they require a little extra time or support, it is important to help your child find ways of coping so they can achieve personal and academic success.
Here are 6 ways to help your child feel comfortable at school.
1. Talk to Your Child About Expectations
Starting a conversation with your child about what they can expect from school as well as what is expected of them can be helpful and will give you an opportunity to answer and clarify questions or concerns. It may also help to discuss the purpose and goal of education and to listen to any feedback they have to offer. With a clear understanding of school expectations, children will be better equipped to handle different situations and interactions with their teachers and classmates. This can be a great opportunity to review topics such as school rules, reward systems, and social skills.
2. Get Involved in School Activities
Participating in extracurricular activities at school is a great way for your child to make new friends and get used to the routine of being at school all day. Encouraging your child to join clubs or sports teams not only helps them build relationships but also gives them another outlet where they can express themselves creatively.
Based on a wealth of research, studies have consistently shown that children who get involved in extracurricular activities have higher academic performance, improved social skills, and overall increased happiness and healthy habits.
3. Facilitate Bonding with Teachers and Classmates
In order for children to feel comfortable at school, they need to establish a sense of trust for those they will be around for several hours each day. You can assist in this process by staying in regular communication with your child’s teacher to check on daily behaviors and progress. Asking your child about their interactions with classmates can also be an opportunity to learn more about their social engagement and activities and can encourage them to maintain healthy social boundaries.
4. Establish Routines
Establishing routines for tasks such as getting ready for bedtime or getting dressed for school will help to ensure everything runs smoothly for the day ahead. Routines are an important component of daily structure and can help keep stress levels low for everyone. When transitioning into a new routine, it’s important that you take it slow so that your child doesn’t feel overwhelmed or intimidated by all the changes taking place around them.
Helping your child adjust slowly by introducing small changes one step at a time can make the transition easier and more attainable. With a solid routine schedule, your child can be more at ease knowing what to expect. If they can master routines at home, they will be more likely to adapt to school routines as well.
5. Provide Extra Support for Learning New Concepts
For students who struggle in certain subject areas, going to school may cause them to experience feelings of anxiousness and fear. Depending on the severity, teachers and parents may need to prepare a response to intervention for students in these groups. It is important for students to know that everyone learns differently and that there is nothing wrong with them. With extra support and guidance, students can take their time applying new strategies to increase their learning and skills.
6. Provide Ongoing Support
Letting your child know how much you care about them is one of the best ways to make sure they feel comfortable in their new environment. Showing support through words of encouragement and undivided attention can go a long way in building their trust and confidence.
All children want to feel comfortable in their environments, and there are many ways that we can support them in doing so. By taking the time to engage in meaningful conversations with our children and listening to their thoughts and concerns, we can learn a great deal about how to meet their needs so they can enjoy a safe and comfortable learning experience.
