A coParent can prepare their child ahead of time for back to school. One most important step is to prepare them socially.
It is very important to phone the child’s school, to see if a classroom and teacher have been assigned and then to do the following: ask for a class list with emails or phone numbers. Think of inviting kids over in two groups to begin friendships.
Think of positive, non-competitive games and activities that could be accomplished at such a meeting…art projects, scavenger hunts, ball games– the event could be held in a nearby park (this doesn’t have to be in your home) in a picnic table area. Ask parents to pack a lunch and say that you will provide water and a fruit for dessert. You don’t know food allergies so it is safe not to bake cookies etc. until these situations become known.
You can write a letter to the teacher sharing any social positives or concerns you may have about the school year and your child’s welfare. Before your write, ask your child if she/he have any specifics concerns about the upcoming school year. Include this in the letter. Hopefully there is a school orientation where you can bring your child and he/she can meet the teacher and some classmates.
Start planning some ideas for after-school activities with friends – clubs, classes, play dates so your child can be prepared to help choose these fun, social experiences when school begins.
If necessary you can role play difficult social situations with your child and can discuss how to make and keep friends, how to stay away from bullying and how to report critical problems to the classroom teacher.
About Lori Denman-Underhill
