Pre-transition
Explore High School Options Together: Engage your child in discussions about what kind of high school they want to attend and what aspects of learning and school are most important to them.
Meet with the Year 7 Coordinator: This person will be your main point of contact. Consider bringing an "About Me" document that you and your child have created together, highlighting everything the school should know about them. This is also an ideal time to discuss any fidget aids or supportive tools your child uses and to establish the best communication methods and platforms the school utilizes.
Meet with Teachers Early: Schedule meetings with your child's teachers to discuss their expectations and your child's needs. Before these meetings, brainstorm with your child about any concerns or questions they have so you can address them together.
Tour the School: Visit the school with your child, locate the office, and explain that it's a place where they can go for assistance. Consider recording the tour on video so your child can review it at home.
Get a Copy of the School Map: Label important locations such as your child's classrooms and the restrooms. Keep copies at home and in your child’s locker for easy reference.
Establish Transportation Plans: Decide how your child will get to and from school—whether by bus, car, or walking—and create a clear plan to ensure a smooth transition.
During Transition
Establish a new morning and afternoon routine: routines will create a smoother transition. Its important to find out what works best for you and your child when it comes to wake up times or when to pack bags. Your OT can help with creating successful routines!
Lower expectations: School transitions can be overwhelming, so it's helpful to lower expectations during this time. Reducing demands can create a more positive experience for both you and your child.
Support with Reminders: Staying on top of your child’s schedule and offering gentle reminders can help ease the stress of transitioning to a new routine.
Remember, school transitions can be stressful for parents too: It's crucial to take time for yourself. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your OT if you need support.
Have supportive and helpful conversations with your child:
Acknowledge the Changes: Openly discuss the upcoming transition and what might be different about high school. Start these conversations early to give your child time to process and prepare.
Explain Teacher Roles: Help your child understand the different roles their teachers will have and identify the safe people at school they can turn to if they need help or support.
Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge and validate your child’s emotions. Avoid minimising or dismissing negative feelings—it's completely normal to feel nervous about such a big change!
Address Their Worries: Discuss the aspects of high school that your child feels anxious about and explore potential scenarios that concern them. This provides an excellent opportunity for problem- solving together.
Create a Safe Space: Encourage open communication by creating a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
Written by Hannah Broughton - Placement student from Deakin University