Adjusting to a New School

BRADLEY HOSPITAL
A Lifespan Partner
Carol Lin Vieira
Senior Marketing and Communications Officer
Bradley Hospital

Helping children adjust to a new school Providence, RI

For many kids, starting a new school can be an exciting, yet challenging experience. Parents can do a lot to help ease their child's transition, says Alison Miller, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist atBradley Hospital, the nation's first psychiatric hospital for children.

"When a child knows that his or her parents are taking the time to familiarize themselves with their new school, it can go a long way in boosting their self-confidence as the new kid," says Miller.

She recommends that parents make an appointment to meet with the teacher before their child starts classes. Miller also suggests that parents call the school and find out if there is an orientation for new students and if not, to arrange a tour for their child before classes begin.

Parents can also do a practice run for getting to and from school and should ask their children about their concerns and offer solutions. Forexample, if a child is worried that she won't be able to open her locker, have her practice before school starts. "Addressing your child's fears of the unknown," says Miller, "Should help ease his or her concerns."

Other parents in the neighborhood can also be an invaluable resource since they are familiar with the school environment and after-school activities. Befriending other parents also affords a new kid the opportunity to meet aclassmate before school starts, and knowing someone beforehand can help alleviate a child's anxiety.

Miller emphasizes that having a close and well-informed connection between home and school is very important for a child's adjustment and school success. "Volunteer in the classroom or on class trips if possible, and ask the teacher if there are any classroom rituals, or if you could provide any special supplies that would make your child feel prepared and more included," she suggests.

Parents can also review social skills with their children by coaching them on how to introduce themselves, how to ask questions to get to know others, and to remember to share with classmates and smile.

Miller recommends that parents solicit their child's opinions about the newschool and continue asking questions about the new routine. "Your child should feel that they have a forum in which to discuss their positive and negative feelings about the new school - keeping yourself informed is important for many reasons, but most crucially, to ensure that adjustment is progressing normally," says Miller.

Since it may take a few weeks or months for kids to feel comfortable in a new school, it is important that parents do not dismiss their child's concerns. "If you notice that your child is complaining excessively about illness on school days, actively avoiding any discussion of school, having trouble sleeping, or wetting the bed, you may wish to schedule an appointment with your child's teacher and/or school counselor to discuss your child's adjustment," says Miller.

Additionally, a hearing and vision test should be performed to rule out physical problems.