There is a lot that goes into the preparation for starting school. Lesley van Straaten, a qualified teacher and counsellor based in Ballito, shares her tips for a smooth transition.
BE PREPARED
Be ready with all that the school has requested in advance, so that both you and your child feel prepared.
GET YOUR ROUTINE RIGHT
Plan a good morning routine, which allows for a relaxed start to the day, and for being on time. Being late is unsettling for children.
HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOUR CHILD
On the actual first day, once your child has settled in the classroom, try not to linger around. This sends mixed messages to your child – either you are anxious, or you are anxious for them. As far as possible, discuss what is going to happen ahead of time so that your child knows what to expect.
Try not to compare your child. I love the analogy that a child is like an avocado pear: it will ripen in its own time. There is nothing you can do to ripen it prematurely. And if you open it before its ready – you may damage it.
GET READY TO READ
Start preparing for reading – use whatever books or magazines you have and encourage your child to tell you their version of what is happening in the pictures. Have fun with this – give the characters names; use funny voices to ‘read’ what they are saying, etc. And ask them to predict what is going to happen on the next page. The purpose of reading is comprehension. Most importantly, have fun!
HAVE FUN
Embrace the journey – formal schooling is at least twelve years – and the foundations are set in these early years.
A delightful idea is to give your child a little note to look forward to in the lunch box every day – or to draw a little picture, until they can read. It works well!
GIVE YOUR CHILD TIME
The school day is full and busy. Don’t be upset if your child does not want to talk on the way home. Give them space and time to unwind and recalibrate! You are their safe place.
Try not to overload the afternoons with extra-mural activities. The more free play time children have, the better.
Details: Lesley taught Foundation Phase for many years. Recognising her love for catalysing growth and positive outcomes, she has embraced a new career in mentoring, coaching, counselling and advising. Lesley works from her practice in Simbithi – both in-person and online consultations. 082 4510 113; [email protected]
