Parentzone
What parents can do
To help your child settle in at school, you can
- talk to your child about the changes they are facing. Ask if there is anything they are unsure or worried about
- do a trial run of the journey to school if it is different or further than before
- help your child prepare by getting everything (uniform, stationery, money, etc) ready the night before; encourage them to take responsibility and organise themselves
- keep a copy of the timetable where it can be easily seen; this serves as a reminder about days where certain books, or PE kit, are needed
- take an interest in what they are learning and help them (see Help with homework). If the school uses a home-school diary or homework diary make a point of looking at it to see what they are – or should be – doing
- take an interest in new friends they are making
- encourage them to take part in after-school clubs and activities – they can help your child learn new things in a fun way and increase the overall motivation to learn
- make a note of key school events on a wall planner, for example pantomimes, parents' evenings, school sport days.
To find out more you can
- attend induction events or introductory sessions. They are designed to let you meet teachers and see the environment your child will be learning in. If you cannot attend an event, contact the school and ask if you can go along at another time
- go prepared with a set of questions covering all the things you and your child want to know about
- keep in touch with the school (see Communicating with your child's school) and let them know any important information about your child
- read information provided by the school, which may include:
- information leaflets and newsletters
- handbooks or prospectuses
- information on the school website
- information afternoons and evenings
- induction events
- parents' evenings, to provide feedback and opportunity for discussion.
If you do not receive documents or information about these kinds of events, contact the school office and ask.
To help the school you can
- let the school know how they should contact you, especially in an emergency
- inform them of any details about your child, such as medical conditions and hobbies/interests that you believe are important.
To become involved in a new school and support it, you can find out…
- what opportunities there are to assist in the school
- if there is a group of parents already supporting the school, which you can become involved with
- if there are any practical skills you can offer.
