Start the new school year with confidence: 10 tips from a teacher

Starting a new school year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for children and parents alike. Whether your child is entering primary school, transitioning to secondary school, or simply moving up a year, it's natural to worry about how they'll tackle the changes and if they'll face it with confidence.

Here we share top tips and practical advice fro our experiences teachers and tutors here at My Primary and Secondary Tutor on how to help your child build confidence and ease into the new school year. From establishing routines and preparing necessary supplies to fostering independence and addressing anxieties, we want to help your child feel ready and excited for the new school year and watch their progress and confidence grow.

 

1. Establish a Routine During the Summer Holidays

It’s inevitable that the usual term-time routine slips during the summer, and that’s perfectly fine. However, as the start of the school year approaches, it’s beneficial to gradually reintroduce a routine similar to a school day. This could involve having breakfast after getting dressed or going for a walk in the morning. Establishing this structure helps ease the transition into the school year, reducing the shock of early mornings and structured days in September. Moreover, it builds your child’s confidence in managing their self-care and fosters a sense of predictability, which is comforting for children.

 

2. Preparing for a New Start

Involve your child in the back-to-school preparations. Let them choose their school bag, pencil case, and other supplies. This not only makes them feel excited about the new school year but also gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility. Choosing their own items can boost their confidence as they feel more prepared and in control. This process also provides a great opportunity to discuss any feelings they might have about returning to school.

 

3. Discuss What the New School Year Will Bring

Have open conversations with your child about what to expect in the new school year. Talk about new subjects, changes in routine, and any new teachers they might have. Giving them space to express their concerns or questions can help alleviate any anxiety. Discussing these topics in advance can make them feel more prepared and less anxious, fostering a smoother transition and a positive outlook towards the new school year.

 

4. Walk the School Route Before the First Day

Especially if your child is starting at a new school, familiarise them with the route to school. Walk the path together a few times before the first day. This helps them know what to expect, reducing first-day jitters. Knowing the route and landmarks along the way can make the journey less intimidating and more predictable, enhancing their overall confidence about going to school.

 

5. Give Them Autonomy Over Their Routine

Encourage your child to take part in setting up their daily routine. Let them decide where their uniform will be kept, where their school bag will be placed, what they’d like in their packed lunch, and what after-school snack they’d prefer. This autonomy fosters independence and self-confidence as they learn to manage their belongings and make choices about their day. It also helps them feel more in control and responsible for their own routine.

 

6. Provide Opportunities for After-School Activities They Choose

After a day of structured activities and decisions made for them, children benefit from having some choice and control. Discuss potential after-school activities or clubs they might be interested in. Whether it’s a structured activity like dance or swimming or a relaxed one like going to the park or watching their favorite show, letting them choose gives them something to look forward to and reinforces their sense of independence and confidence.

 

7. Make Time for Friends

One of the biggest anxieties children may have is reconnecting with friends after a long summer break. They might worry about whether their friends will still like them or if they will make new friends. Arrange playdates or casual meet-ups with their school friends before school starts. This can ease their fears and help them feel more connected and less anxious about social interactions when school begins.

 

8. Acknowledge That Change Is Scary - Talk About It

Change can be daunting for children. Acknowledge that it’s normal to feel scared about new experiences. Encourage open discussions about their feelings regarding the new school year. Use positive language to frame the changes in an exciting way while validating their concerns. For instance, you might say, "The classroom will look different in Year 3, and it might feel strange at first, but it will be exciting to find your new desk and meet your new teacher!"

 

9. Be Intentional with Home Learning Time  

Learning extends beyond the classroom, and engaging in educational activities at home can reinforce school learning. However, this doesn’t mean children need to spend hours on homework. Focus on enrichment activities that promote learning through play, real-life experiences, and conversations. Activities like baking, nature walks, crafts, reading, and writing can be both educational and enjoyable, helping children apply what they learn in a fun and meaningful way.

 

10. Invest in a Tutor

If your child struggles with certain subjects or could benefit from extra support, consider investing in a tutor. Teachers in classrooms with many students can only provide limited one-on-one attention. A tutor can offer personalised instruction tailored to your child’s needs, helping them overcome challenges, build skills, and boost their confidence. Online tutoring options provide flexibility and can be a great supplement to regular school instruction.

 

Finally, some worries are normal - both from you and your child - and we hope by embracing some of these tips, you can support your child in their exciting transition. However, we also know that navigating some of these challenges as a parent can feel a lot so we want to make sure you're not doing it alone or with questions you're not sure where ot fond the answer to. Come over to our dedicated Facebook group, The Parent Hub, where you can find a selection of educational experts on hand to support you and your family.

If you're interested in investing in a tutor to support your child's progress next academic year, then get in touch about our 1:1 or group sessions via email or drop us a DM on facebook or instagram.