Settling into a new class

Starting a new school year is an exciting time for many, but for some students (and their parents) it can also be quite challenging. The return to school can be tricky for parents and carers to navigate to ensure their child is happy and settled in the classroom. Your child may be upset about changing classes or be worried that they might not be in the same class as their friends. Many students experience these anxieties as a new school year begins.

Questions such as ‘is this a great opportunity for my child to build resilience and expand their social circles?’ and ‘my child might be miserable, should I talk to the school about changing classes?’ are common dilemmas faced by families.

While there’s no one size fits all approach, here are 6 tips from Sharon Baker, Principal in Residence at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership, informed by Australian research and the general principles of child psychology.

1. Acknowledge their feelings

• Validate emotions: Let your child know it's okay to feel sad, anxious, or disappointed. Acknowledging these emotions can reduce anxiety by making them feel understood (Beyond Blue, 2021). You might say, ‘I know it’s hard to leave a class where you felt comfortable, and it's normal to feel a bit nervous about what’s coming next.’

2. Focus on positives and familiarity

• Highlight exciting aspects: Emphasise the positive opportunities that come with the new class, like meeting new friends, trying different activities, or having a fresh start with a new teacher. This reframing can help children start seeing change as an opportunity.
• Identify familiar faces: Point out any friends or known peers who might also be in their new class. Familiar faces can help ease the transition (Dockett & Perry, 2007).

3. Encourage problem-solving and independence

• Plan for success: Brainstorm strategies with your child to help them feel more comfortable, such as introducing themselves to new classmates, joining group activities, or asking for help when needed.
• Build coping skills: Teach your child positive self-talk, like reminding themselves, ‘I can handle new things,’ which research shows can reduce anxiety and build resilience (Australian Institute of Family Studies, 2021).
• Model a positive outlook on change: Show a positive attitude toward change yourself, sharing times when you successfully handled transitions or new experiences. This can set a model for them and show that they can handle new situations too. Let them see that you are confident in their ability to handle the change, which can help them feel more secure.

4. Set and maintain predictable routine

• Consistency and structure: Establishing a daily routine, including consistent bedtimes, meal schedules, and even homework times, helps children feel secure. Familiarity with routines can help them feel more in control amid changes in their school life (ARACY, 2018).
• Transition preparation: If possible, practice aspects of their new routine, such as packing their school bag or visiting the new classroom, to help them feel prepared and ready.

5. Encourage open communication with teachers

• Connect with educators: Let your child know they can approach their teacher with questions or concerns. Building rapport with the teacher early on can help them feel supported. Communicating with the teacher yourself may also help establish support for your child if any specific anxieties arise.

6. Promote friendships and social skills

• Arrange playdates or social time: If possible, arrange for your child to meet some classmates outside of school. Positive social interactions help children build confidence in their social skills and see their new class as a space for friendships (Dockett & Perry, 2007).

Supporting a child through a class transition takes time and patience. You can make the adjustment more manageable by recognising their feelings, setting positive expectations, and helping them prepare for the change.

Teachers and school leaders have generally seen it all and will be well-placed to support and provide advice. Contacting your child’s school to understand what supports are available, and how other students who may have experienced similar concerns in the past have gone on to excel is often a great way to draw on the experience and expertise from those who are also committed to seeing your child flourish in the new year.

For more information, resources like Beyond Blue and the Australian Institute of Family Studies provide helpful guidance on fostering resilience and managing transitions for children. The Department of Education also provides some helpful Tips for Starting School and a Starting School Guide, which has hints for changing schools and supporting children with additional needs.

Sharon Baker is a Principal in Residence at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership. Sharon has nearly thirty-five years' experience as a teacher and school leader.