Parental Guide to Thrilling Education: Top 5 Strategies for Family Success
First-Graders' First Day: Tips from Child Psychologist Martina Kokorsch
As the first day of school approaches, some future first-graders may be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. To help parents support their children during this exciting time, Martina Kokorsch, a child psychologist at the KJF Educational, Youth, and Family Counseling Service in Kaufbeuren-Ostallgau, offers some valuable advice.
Kokorsch, who supported the first school year as a child psychologist at the same institution last year, emphasizes the significance of the first day of school. She suggests that parents should be patient and understanding if their children are anxious or hesitant, as this is a crucial step in their lives.
One of the key strategies Kokorsch recommends is open communication. Parents should talk to their children about their feelings and expectations, allowing them to express any concerns they may have. She also advises parents to encourage their children to ask questions about the school and their new teachers, fostering a sense of curiosity and preparation.
To help children cope with nerves on the first day, Kokorsch suggests creating a routine in the days leading up to the big day. This can help children feel more comfortable and secure, knowing what to expect. She also recommends visiting the school with their children beforehand to help familiarize them with the environment.
In addition, Kokorsch advises parents to remind their children that it's okay to make mistakes and that everyone learns from them. She encourages parents to provide their children with positive affirmations and reassurances, boosting their confidence and resilience.
To avoid overwhelming children, Kokorsch advises against over-scheduling them in the days leading up to the first day of school. Instead, she suggests helping them practice simple tasks such as buttoning their shirt or tying their shoes to build confidence.
With the schoolbag and satchel ready, parents can follow these tips from Martina Kokorsch to help their children navigate this significant step with ease and excitement.
