Starting school can be a stressful event in a child’s life. This is true especially for your child who is going to a new school in a new country.  Your child be adapting to a new environment, new language, and a new culture altogether. Separation anxiety, especially for those starting pre-school or kindergarten, could also be a problem. To help ease the situation for you and your kids, here are a few suggestions:

Do some research

Before the school year starts, learn about the school. Don’t be afraid to visit and talk to administrators or teachers (Note: Call first before visiting the school). They will appreciate your involvement in your child’s welfare. Ask about programs for newcomers such as tours, orientations or even assigning a “buddy” to new students. A school tour will be helpful in making them feel more comfortable with the new environment. Go with your child on the tour and point out the classrooms, playground, bathrooms, or the cafeteria so that they won’t feel lost on their first day. Ask about sports or arts programs that your child may be interested in. This will help your child look forward to school instead of being anxious.

Watch this video from Parents Magazine for tips in helping your child face their first day of school fears:

Older children such as your teenager, may have different concerns.  They could be anxious about speaking in English, fitting in, or coping with school work. The following video entitled “New Moves: An Orientation Video for Newcomer Students” may be helpful for them. Seeing newcomer youth just like themselves talk about their experiences can help ease their worries:

This video is also available in various languages at the Settlement.Org site.  It was produced by Frameline Productions for the Settlement Workers in School Program (SWIS) in Ontario.

Communicate

You are also going through the same adjustment as your kids. Sharing how you feel will help them. Always check up on them, especially when they are withdrawn. Be open to talk whenever they feel like it. Be a good example and always communicate positivity. Tell them that adjusting is part of new adventures.  They will soon be involved in exciting activities and have new friends. Your kids will eventually forget their fears and anxieties.

Get involved

Volunteering at your child’s school will give you an opportunity to meet their teachers, classmates and other parents. It will also help improve your communication skills. Networking with other parents is a great way to meet kids your child can socialize with.  More importantly, this will show your kids that getting involved is a good thing. It can encourage them to try being more outgoing through your example.

Always show your support. Be patient and know that this phase is temporary. Soon, you will hear your kids’ complaints change to excited chatter as they become more adjusted to their school life.

 
Article updated July 25, 2023.