As we approach the “back to school” season, children can experience many emotions- excitement, nervousness, apprehension, and so much more. Starting school for the first time or going back to school with a new teacher and curriculum can be dauting. Below are several ways to prepare your child for heading back to school and hopefully ease the transition out of the summer season.
Create Social Stories
Social stories are an incredible way to prepare a child for a variety of different situations. Anyone can create a social story and adapt it to any situation. They are a social learning tool which works to present information in a direct and literal way. Social stories can walk a child through their day, help decrease fear of the unexpected, and set up a routine for how to engage in an activity (such as a school day). In a “Back to School” social story you can include pictures of your child, the building, teachers, friends, the classroom, the bus, and anything else applicable to the situation. You can start the story with simple sentences, setting up the day and situation. For example, say “It’s Johnny’s first day of school,” while showing a picture of a child in front of school. Then progress on through your child’s day. “Johnny will say ‘hello’ to his teachers and put his backpack in his cubby,” and show a picture of his cubby and/or teacher.
Grow Vocabulary
Growing specific vocabulary is a second way to prepare your child for school. There are many terms that we use while at school including: cafeteria, homework, backpack, teacher, recess, and many more. Working with your child to know and understand this vocabulary will help them navigate their day with confidence and decrease confusion and fear.
Pretend Play
Pretend Play is another great way to prepare your child for school. Playing school at home will help your child understand the dynamics, like sitting in a chair, completing tasks, learning, socializing, and so much more. The parent and child can take turns being the teacher. It is even better if you can involve siblings and friends!
Visual Schedules
Visual schedules help children understand what is expected of them, what comes next, and when the day will be complete. A visual schedule can be used at home to show your child “first we brush our teeth, then ride the bus, attend school, next ride in mom’s car, and last we play with toys at home.”
It is important to remember that all children learn and approach new situations differently. It may take your child time to adjust to a new environment and routine. Hopefully, being able to prepare your child for the upcoming changes will ease the transition not only for your child but also for you as a parent!
We hope you found these tips helpful! If you are interested in reading more on topics like this, visit our Blog or Resources for Families page. We also share valuable resources on our Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, if your child is in need of speech-language support, our team is here to help! Speak with our experts by calling (704) 523-8027.