(WFSB) – This week, Eyewitness News is getting tips on helping students going to school for the first time or moving from one school to another.
On Tuesday we are focusing on helping children transition from elementary to middle school.
It can be challenging.
It’s not just the next grade. It’s a new building, a new time of day, a different routine with more freedom and more responsibilities.
It’s the good and the scary, all mixed together in one wild ride.
“This is going to be a bit of a roller coaster ride. Because a lot of things are happening. So if you can bring a little humor, you’ll be better equipped to handle things that come your way,” said Sandy Chafouleas, UConn Distinguished Professor of Education.
High school students are given more independence, are asked to make more decisions, and are given more complex tasks, bringing about feelings of maturity but they will also struggle with a necessary challenge.
“Each child develops at an individual rate, so it is important to help them establish a structure in advance so that they work in an organizational system, not just the agenda given at school. That is coming home,” Chafouleas said.
The social side is equally big and important. You must add a virtual learning readjustment period that was needed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
(Amiee Terosky USJ Professor of Education)
“Just learning to work in groups, and walking the halls and taking back some of the social loss that they had,” said Amiee Terosky, a USJ professor of education.
Parents, keep in mind that they may be there nearby, but not too close to provide assistance.
“You still need to be there to guide and help set limits, but you need to give them more and more options,” Terosky said.
Tips for students
Organize daily tasksGet to Know Your School Counselor and Support StaffRedefine yourself (work styles, social and fashion styles)
Tips for parents
teach independenceSet up a Calendar queryFoster expansion and inclusion
Kids, get together and get organized.
Meet the adults at school who are there to help you and expand your social circles.
For parents, let your kids make more decisions, but check your structure and loosen the reins a bit as they get older and want some freedoms.
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