Helping Students Transition to the New School Year
As summer comes to an end, students will soon be heading back to school for the new academic year. After a long break from the classroom, students may be feeling apprehensive about the transition back to the school routine. Teachers can support their students during this time by employing a few strategies to help ease the transition.
Establish classroom routines: One of the most important things teachers can do is to Establish classroom routines. Students generally look for the structure the school year provides in what may be in stark contrast to a lazy summer. Establish routines and procedures the first week. This will help students to feel more comfortable and confident in the classroom.
Create a welcoming classroom environment: Teachers can help their students feel at home in the classroom by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. This can include things like having positive messages on the walls, decorating the classroom with items that reflect the students' interests, and creating a comfortable seating arrangement.
Get to know your students: Taking the time to get to know each student on an individual level can help to build a positive and trusting relationship between the teacher and the student. Teachers can learn about their students' interests, strengths, and challenges by asking open-ended questions and engaging in meaningful conversations.
Encourage collaboration and teamwork: Encouraging collaboration and teamwork among students can help to build a sense of community in the classroom. Teachers can facilitate group work, encourage students to work in pairs, and promote class discussions to foster a sense of camaraderie among students.
Address any gaps in learning: Students may have fallen behind academically from the last few years or may be out of practice with studying, reading, or organizing their schedules. Teachers can support their students by assessing their current levels of understanding and addressing any gaps in learning that have emerged. This may involve revisiting previous material, providing additional support and resources, or adjusting the pace of instruction.
Foster social and emotional wellbeing: Returning to school can be a stressful experience for some students. Teachers can support their students' social and emotional wellbeing by creating opportunities for students to connect with each other, promoting positive self-talk and mindfulness practices, and providing a safe space for students to share their thoughts and feelings.
Communicate with parents and caregivers: Teachers can help to support their students by communicating regularly with parents and caregivers. This may involve sharing updates on student progress, providing resources for support at home, and addressing any concerns that parents or caregivers may have.
How do you support students transitioning back to school? Let us know in the comments!