In the next few weeks your children will move up to the next class in Primary. This means a new teacher, a new classroom, and a new experience in Primary. Some children do not seem concerned about the transition and move up with no problems. Others really struggle with the transition. If your child is shy, or really likes routine you may need to help her to adjust. If you are a Primary teacher you may want to take some of these suggestions into account as well.
1) The first thing to do is to discuss the matter with your child. You can tell a lot about how they are feeling, and whether or not this will be an issue for him, in a simple conversation. You may want to remind him of what happened last year.
2) You may want to have your child make a thank you and good bye card for her old teacher. She can give it to her teacher the last week of the year. This will give her some closure with her new teacher. It is also nice to show appreciation for all the hard work that the teacher has done through the year.
3) If possible find out whom your child’s new teacher will be. You should take the time to have your child meet the new teacher the week before class begins. If you are a Primary teacher you may want to visit your new students at their homes and introduce yourself briefly.
4) It is important to continue to expect your children to attend Primary. If you have a child whom really struggles with this you may want to attend class the first week. You do need to set expectations and stick to them.
5) You should address any concerns you may have about your child with your new teacher. This is especially true if your child has special needs. If you tell the teacher the best way to help your child, this will benefit both the teacher and your child.
Related Articles:
Primary Time: Making the Transition from Primary to Nursery
Primary Time: Getting Ready for Nursery Class
Primary Time: Helping Your Reluctant Child Attend Primary