At the age of six, the serious business of life begins: children used to often hear these or similar sentences as the start of school approached.
From kindergarten child to school student – how to achieve a smooth transition
In recent years, the curricula for the first years of primary school have changed frequently. Today, dedicated teachers try to make the start of school easier for children by incorporating many playful elements into lessons and specifically reducing fears.
Cooperation between kindergarten and primary school has also improved in many places. Nevertheless, many preschool children do not only feel joy when they think about their new role as a schoolchild. After all, this new phase of life brings with it many crucial changes and, above all, responsibilities. Together with the teachers, you as parents should endeavor to make the transition between kindergarten and school as smooth as possible and prepare your child well for the new challenges.
Encourage without overtaxing – get your child used to obligations before starting school
The big difference between the support provided in kindergarten and the learning process at school is that a child suddenly has a lot more responsibilities at school. A moment ago, they were able to play, laugh and romp around all day and suddenly they have to pay attention for 45 minutes at a time, always have their books ready, do their homework and write neatly.
This is a shock for many new schoolchildren. It is therefore a good idea to get children used to their responsibilities before they start school. This does not mean that the little ones have to do writing or math exercises every day. There are other options.
If your child wants to join a gymnastics club or music school, for example, they should first take part in a non-binding trial lesson. After that, they can decide for themselves whether they want to continue participating or not. But: once your child has made a decision, they should stick with it - especially if the annual fee has already been paid.
Every family also has situations in everyday life in which a preschool child can take on some responsibilities. For example, give your daughter or son the task of taking out the garbage, going to the bakery or setting the table regularly. This way you kill several birds with one stone, because your child not only develops a sense of duty but also feels taken seriously. It also strengthens their self-confidence.
In addition, always encourage your child to think for themselves, pay attention and listen. What did the teachers say about the trip? What costumes are needed for the performance at the summer festival? What options does your child see for settling the dispute between the two best friends?
In this way, you will also be promoting the ability to concentrate and think in a solution-oriented manner. Students urgently need these two skills because they make the learning process much easier.
Also important: Let your child try out as many things as possible on their own and encourage their independence. When they start school, they should be able to dress themselves, organize themselves and look after their personal belongings.
The first time at school – make sure you get enough rest
The first few weeks of school are particularly stressful for children. Not only do they have to get used to learning, but they also have to find their way around an unfamiliar building, master the route to school and find their place in the class community. In the afternoons, there is homework.
During this time, you as a parent should pay particular attention to ensuring that your child gets enough sleep and also has time to relax during the day. Try to keep the number of afternoon appointments to a minimum so that your son or daughter can meet up with friends or make themselves comfortable in their room.
Do not put pressure on your child if he or she initially finds it difficult to meet the school requirements. Many first-graders compete with each other for praise from the teacher and are already putting themselves under stress. Offer to help your child with their homework, but accept it if they refuse your help. Also important: If your child makes mistakes, do not correct them. Otherwise, the teachers will misjudge your child's performance and the first tests will produce frustrating results.
If you notice that your child is overwhelmed, talk to the class teacher.
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