Change is always hard. Even us adults struggle with new jobs, moving into a new area, or new relationships. So, how do children manage to adapt to their changing environment? Change is a part of life and all children will have to experience some sort of change at some point in their life whether it’s a new school or a new house. It can be very difficult on them and on you too that is why we’ve decided to dedicate a whole post to helping children with adapting and dealing with changes.
Let’s start by discussing changing schools. This can be a nerve-racking time for children as obviously school is a big part of their life. Try making the transition smoother by taking your child to the new school when you visit it. If this is not possible, take some photos to show your child when you get home. Photos will give them a rough idea of what to expect which will make them less nervous. If it is possible have your child meet their new teacher before they start school. This will allow your child and their teacher to start building a relationship without the pressure of the rest of the class being there. If the transition between schools is what we refer to as a normal transition for example between primary and secondary where all students will be going through the same transition. Have your children meet up with their old friends in the summer. Having them stay in contact with their friends over the long summer period, helps them reunite with old friends when they restart school plus they can talk about their fears and worries together which should help ease them.
Moving on to the next point. Do acknowledge your child’s feelings. This is a scary time and it shouldn’t just be brushed off by you. Let them know that it is okay to feel nervous and that you are there for them. When they do actually start school make sure you communicate with them and monitor their behavior. It’s okay if they haven’t made loads of friends in the first few days as it will take some time to adjust but do make sure they are settling in and ask teachers for feedback.
How about moving into a new house? It can be difficult for a child who has grown up in the same house to suddenly change houses. We suggest starting to prepare them from as soon as you know about the move yourself. You shouldn’t keep it a secret until the last minute as this will just increase any anxiety they may have. Let them choose their room in the new house if possible and also choose the layout of their bedroom. Giving them control of the situation will help them feel like they are part of the decision to move. When it comes to packing and unpacking. Do try to let them help you and also pack up their room last in the old house and unpack their things first in the new house. This will allow them to feel settled even if the rest of the house isn’t completely unpacked.
When it comes to big changes such as changing schools or moving house, do make it fun for the first couple of days into the change. Extra treats and fun activities won’t hurt anyone 🙂
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If getting your children to sleep through the night, is mission impossible for you then be sure to check out last week’s blog:
https://www.childcaremalta.mt/night-time/