As an adult, it is common for us to take time to ease into a new space. Imagine what a kid might go through, especially when he or she is transitioning to a new school after being in one for at least a year or two.
For kids, a new environment, whether home, friends, or school, is a stressful task. In fact, they tend to withdraw from reality quite soon when things seem unfamiliar.
As a parent, you can extend the right support and, of course, maintain a little patience to help your kid adapt to the new international kindergarten. In this article, we have listed details on what support you can offer your kid.
1. Teach your kid to embrace uncertaint
Even adults aren’t fans of uncertainty, let alone kids. However, it is crucial to have such heavy-duty conversations with your little one. You can begin by discussing the stress you and your kid must be feeling. Let him or her know that it is okay to feel sad about the changes.
The idea is to prevent our little one’s emotions from determining his or her actions.
2. Ease the burden on your little one
If the new school has equipped your kid with multiple responsibilities, reduce a few tasks he or she is required to do at home temporarily.
When someone uses all of their energy and brainpower, they tend to feel overwhelmed. And that is precisely what you don’t want your kid to feel. A little less tasks on hand will give your kids stretch time to manage the transition.
3. Talk to the teachers at the new international school
Teachers know well how transitions can hamper a child’s ability to focus. Hence, be proactive in talking with your kid’s international school teacher about the same. Let the teacher know what your kid is feeling and how he or she is doing.
Communicate any concerns you may have about your kid. The teacher might have resources to help students feel comfortable.
4. Let your international kindergarten kid spend time with you
Spending time with new people can feel exhausting for your kid. Hence, provide him or her support and relief by spending time having fun. Perhaps take them to a museum or playground, head to an ice cream parlor, or take a walk at a nearby trail.
Just a little time with your little one can help with his or her mental and emotional well-being.
5. Wait a while until reuniting them with old friends
Of course, you want your kid to remain in contact with old friends but don’t have a face-to-face meeting so soon. Meanwhile, encourage your kid to write emails, letters or talk on phone calls.
Let your child feel comfortable before he or she can reunite with old friends. The idea is to let him or her take ownership of the new international kindergarten school or branch out.
Wrapping up
Of course, transitioning to a new international kindergarten is a challenging task for your little one, but it doesn’t have to be. As a parent, you have the upper hand. Remain involved in your little one’s life and make things easier for him or her by adhering to the suggestions listed above.