The big day is fast approaching, your newly adoptive child is about to start their new school. Do they seem nervous, anxious, maybe excited? Help that first morning run smoothly and without a glitch with these easy tips.
The Teacher
Arrange for you and your child to meet their teacher before their first day. This way there won’t be the fear of whether they will like their new teacher or not. When you meet the teacher it is important to give them at least 2 contact numbers for you and any information about allergies or medication your child may take.
If you can’t arrange a meeting then maybe try and find a photo of the teacher on the school website so your child can put a face to the name.
The School
As well as meeting their teacher a nice thought may be to pay the school a visit and to have a tour of the classroom and facilities your child will be using. A sense of familiarity on a first day will ease nerves. Perhaps you can take a look at where they will sit in class, you could locate the toilets or even run around the school yard together.
Stationary
One of the great things about starting a new school or a new year is the chance of getting a new pencil case and pens. I don’t know about you but we love scented gel pens! Even though your child might not need new stationary the shop together will be a nice treat and it makes the day seem special.
The Routine
Cut the anxiety over the unknown by practising your morning routine a few says before the first day of school. Wake up the same time, eat breakfast and get into the car on time. Children thrive when given a set routine as it is familiar. If they have the morning routine perfected then there should not be any interruptions which would make you late on their first day.
Label
Have you got a labelling machine? No? Then get out your trusty permanent marker and make sure that your child’s name is written on all of their belongings. Jumper, lunch box, coat, everything! This way even if they get left around, they should get returned. Hopefully with labelled items this will give your child a sense of ownership and they will be less likely to misplace items.
On the Day
When you get to school explain that it is only for a few hours and that you will be coming to pick them up soon. Some children who have been in care may have separation anxiety so this is an important step. Tell them the time and point out where you will be waiting for them.
And if they cry, don’t feel bad. You’re not doing anything wrong, they have to go to school. Just make sure not to cry in front of them.
If your adoptive child is starting a new school in the new school term then get prepared with these tips. It’s a big day for both of you, so enjoy it!