As the long summer break comes to a close this weekend, Khaleej Times spoke with Rachana Sippy, Secondary School Counsellor at the Dubai International Academy, on how to get students prepared for the school season. Here is what she had to say:

Q) If a child is reluctant to go to school on the first day, should a parent force their child to attend classes or skip going to school that day? Why or why not?

A) Difficulty attending school is normally complex and mainly related with emotional distress, especially anxiety and depression. I would suggest that the parents must not force the child but cajole them into going to school with no false promises, as it can lead to more challenging situations and other complications. Other suggestions include: Make their mornings calm and comfortable, not rushed. Encourage your child to talk about it when you see a discomfort in your child or when they are able to speak. If the child cannot verbalise, request him or her to write it down when they can.

In extreme cases, escort your child to school and speak to the identified staff who will be closely around your child and will be able to assist you and your child’s concern. If required, fix an appointment with a professional counsellor who will be able to counsel your child. Sometimes there are just no clear reasons why the fears and anxieties have risen and parents are left struggling with their child’s seemingly unreasonable fear of school.

How difficult is it for parents to prepare their child to go to school after a long break?

Getting back to normal routine after a long holiday or vacation is always very difficult not only for school-going children but for adults too. During vacations, all of us get into the pattern of irregular sleep habits, waking and eating habits, going out without a thought, travelling, adjusting to country zones which are fun.

Many students are very excited and motivated to get back to school to start a new year with many resolutions. These children slip into routine easily. But there are many who need prep and parents find the end of the vacation always daunting, frustrating and very stressful.

How can parents help their children adjust to the back-to-school routine?

The key is to get organised and start preparing a week or a few days before school starts, depending on the child’s reaction and adjustment. Get the children to organise their bags, stationery and books. Take them for shopping to buy the necessary requirements to make the starting of school happy and fun. Give them chores at home that match with school timings so they are used to a routine.

Is it advisable for parents to get their children accustomed to the school routine a week before reopening?

There are many students who do not need to get accustomed to the school routine because they are so excited and motivated to get back to school to start a new year with many new resolutions and plans just like the new year plans. But there are some who do need to get back to the routine a week or a few days before the school starts. It all depends on each child’s situation; some may need a few days while some may need a week or even more to get accustomed to the school routine.

How can school teachers make it easier for students to adjust to new classes and first day at school?

The first day is normally full of surprises. To make the first day easier, teachers can start reassuring the students in class that most of them will be feeling apprehensive on the first day which is quite normal. Plan a variety of games and activities on the first day of class, creating an environment which allows students to learn more about each other and the teacher too. Teachers can also introduce the subject in many creative ways and emphasise how they can work together creating a strong classroom culture. Teachers can allot peer partners to all new students, making the new students comfortable in class.

muaz@khaleejtimes.com

Tips to help child get into school mode

• Involve your child to discuss various options to tackle ‘back-to-school blues’
• Listen to your child with care and attention and trust them
• Encourage them to plan their first day, make it fun and exciting for them
• Visit your child’s school regularly and liaise with the staff or the counsellor or identified person, till your child settles down