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Transitioning to a New School
August 1st, 2023
Transitioning to a new school can be a challenging experience for students and parents/guardians. It's normal to feel anxious, nervous, or even scared about the unknown. However, it's important to remember that starting a new school also presents opportunities for growth and learning. If you are a parent whose child is transitioning to a new academic experience, there are several things you can do to support them during this period of change. Here are some helpful guidelines to make this more manageable.
Acknowledge and Validate
Acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings. Encourage them to express their concerns and fears, and listen to them without judgment. Remind them that change is stressful and feelings of anxiety are normal during transitions.
Involve Your Child
Try to get your child involved in the transition process. Visit the new school before the first day, meet with teachers and administrators, and attend orientation events. This involvement can help your child feel more comfortable and familiar with their new environment.
Get Connected
Once they start at the new school, encourage your child to make new friends by joining clubs or teams, volunteering, or participating in after-school activities. Getting involved in the life of the school can help them feel more connected and engaged with their new community.
Ask Questions
Maintain an open dialogue with your child. Instead of asking, “how was your day?” and getting a one-word answer, try asking more open-ended questions like, “what was your favorite part of the day” or “what was something new that you learned today?”
Reach Out
Don't hesitate to reach out to teachers or counselors if your child needs support or guidance during this transition period. Understand that feeling isolated as one enters a new environment is normal. If your student is attending boarding school or college/university, they will likely feel some homesickness. These feelings are expected at the beginning of a transition. However, if these feelings and isolation continue, then consider reaching out to an adult resource at the school or encourage your older child to independently access counseling.
Encourage Self-Advocacy
For older students, resist the urge to solve your child’s problems. You want them to feel empowered and to learn the skills necessary to tackle challenges (WWU). Transitions are about greater responsibility and independence for the student. Building these skills can also build your child’s self-confidence.
Be patient and understanding. Transitioning to a new school can take time, and it’s important to remember that everyone adjusts at their own pace. Focus on the positives and celebrate your child’s accomplishments—even the small ones. Remember, with time, effort, and assurance, your child can make a successful transition to their new school.
About the Author
Andrea Meade, Ed.D. is an assistant dean of students at Landmark School with 25 years of experience helping students navigate through the social landscape of high school. Andrea provides support for students, addressing student behavior and coordinating new student orientation for eighth graders moving into high school. Through this work, she collaborates with administrators, teachers, parents, and students.
Posted in the category Social and Emotional Issues.
