Telling children that they are going to be transferring to a new school is never a comfortable subject. Children are typically fond of the friends they have made and fear to leave them behind. Just as children have a fear of going to school for the first time, switch to a new school often comes with the same concern. Here we will show you how to ease the topic of switching schools on your child.

 

1. Decide on the Perfect Time

There is really no great time to break this news to your little one. However, there is a way to create a situation that is more favorable to introduce the topic to your child. You know your child best and can decide what the ideal situation might be. We will give some examples that may help you decide how to address this issue shortly.

 

2. Make a List of Positive Points

You have to be prepared with your talking points because this subject can turn emotional for your child very quickly. Framing the conversation properly is of the utmost importance. Start by making a list of the great things that will come from going to the new school.
This may include things that you are willing to do for your children outside of school to make things better. Perhaps you are moving out of your Washington, DC townhouses and into a home where they will have a larger bedroom or will have access to a better park, where they can play and meet new friends.

 

3. Consider How to Soften the Mood

Aside from the positive talking points, decide how to best set the mood for introducing this touchy subject. Anticipate what you will do if your child starts to cry while you are speaking about the shift. An excellent way to do this is to tell a story about when you had to switch schools as a child and how you were able to adjust and make new friends.

 

4. Plan an Exciting Outing

Planning a trip to an amusement park or similar exciting place before telling your child is a way to make sure they are in good spirits before breaking the news to them. Avoid sounding sad and somber when telling them about the change. Stay upbeat and mention the positive points you listed. Include that they can even stay in contact with all of their old friends while making new friends at their new school.

 

5. Throw a Party and Invite New Classmates

Never underestimate the power of the pizza party. Plan a pizza party and invite the children from your child’s class to make new friends and also make your child seem super cool to their new classmates.

Conclusion

While it is natural for children to fear going to a new school and leaving their friends behind, it becomes easier when they can make new friends quickly. If there is anything that you can do to help them make new friends, this should be done right away. Be supportive and bring the fun and games.