Regardless of the reason you decide to move your child to another school, it is expected that the child’s development will be interrupted and, to some extent, altered.
As a parent responsible for this transition, it is important to recognize the possible impact that the change of school can have on a child’s development and take steps to help them cope with this significant change.
In a recent post published by the renowned educator León Trahtemberg, this situation was addressed; here are the most relevant points from this publication:
School Problems: Children often suffer from bullying, boring pedagogical methods, authoritarian teachers, and lack of emotional support at their current school.
Parents’ Dilemma: Parents face a crossroads between wanting their children’s happiness and the difficulty of changing schools due to convenience, the school’s prestige, and the hope for future improvement.
Negative Impact on Children: Staying in an unfavorable environment negatively affects children’s self-esteem, confidence, initiative, and mental health.
Criticism of Procrastination: The attitude of waiting for improvement without taking action validates the children’s suffering and does not lead to spontaneous improvement.
Changing Schools as an Opportunity: Changing schools does not guarantee absolute happiness, but offers an opportunity to improve children’s emotional well-being and development.
Importance of Making Decisions: Parents should consider what lessons they are teaching by postponing the decision to change schools and whether they are truly prioritizing their children’s well-being and development.
Evidently, changing schools can be a significant experience for both parents and children. Here are some recommendations on how to face this situation:
For Parents
Open Communication: Talk with your child about their feelings and concerns. It is crucial that they feel heard and understood.
Research: Look into the available options and visit potential schools with your child. Involving them in the selection process can help reduce their fears.
Emotional Preparation: Emotionally prepare for the change. It is normal to have doubts, but it is important to maintain a positive attitude and show your child that you trust the decision.
Maintain Routines: Try to maintain some consistent family routines to provide stability during the transition.
Continuous Support: Provide constant support to your child during and after the change. Monitor their adaptation and keep open communication with new teachers.
For Students
Express Feelings: Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns. Validating their emotions can help them better handle the transition.
Explore the New School: Familiarizing with the new environment before the first day of classes can help reduce anxiety. Visit the school, meet the teachers, and other students.
Make New Friends: Encourage participation in extracurricular activities or school groups to facilitate making new friends.
Keep in Touch with Old Friends: Maintaining contact with friends from the old school can provide a sense of continuity and support.
Be Patient: Remember that adapting to a new school takes time. It is important to be patient with oneself and ask for help if necessary.
CONCLUSION
Changing schools can have significant emotional, educational, and social repercussions on a child’s development. It can be a challenge, but it can also be an opportunity for your child to grow and learn. With your support, your child can make the most of this new experience. Generally speaking, parents can teach their children coping strategies and prepare them emotionally during the initial period of moving to a new school.
In the efforts of parents to move their child to a new learning environment, it is also advisable to include concerns about how the change of school can affect the child’s development and the methods that could address these problematic issues.
If you are trying to find the best school environment for your child, Kairos College School is the best option.
Educators with over 30 years of experience in the field know that students learn most effectively when they are happy and healthy. At our school, we prioritize the well-being of our students. That is why we have a School Health Center as part of our campus services. Staffed by qualified professionals, it provides support and helps students adapt to a new school during the school day. Our approach focuses on addressing the health and well-being needs of students with care and a holistic approach.
At Kairos College, inclusion is also facilitated through factors like collaboration for the success of all students and action-oriented solutions for learning variability, with the intention of providing personalized pathways and removing barriers to student success.
Children of all ages, especially the youngest ones, can find here and even become better versions of themselves. Sign up now for our new school year 2025 by clicking here!
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Regardless of the reason you decide to move your child