Easing the Transition to NES Welcome to NES

Easing the Transition to NES Ø Welcome to NES Ø Parent Support for transition Ø Transition Activities moving forward Ø Questions/Answers

Agenda – Introduction (Mrs. Fox and Mr. King) Easing Transition Tips Transition Activities (Mrs. Cook and Mrs. Jachimski) Parent Experience Email Questions/Answers (All) Conclusion (Mrs. Fox and Mr. King)

Easing the Transition Think of a time when you started something new. How did you feel? What helped?

Important Information for Parents: Expect the transition to be ultimately successful. Remain calm and positive. Model optimism and confidence. Talk about all the things the new school has to offer. Encourage your child to discuss the transition by asking questions such as, “What have you been thinking about your new school? ” Make a list of your child’s questions and concerns. Together try to find the answers to the questions. Reassure your child that it is natural to feel apprehensive. Research and review school information. Reinforce resiliency and the ability to cope with change. Plan to attend important events. Get involved. Volunteer. Join the PTO.

Visit the school with your child. Get to know teachers and other school professionals. Have open conversations with school professionals and administration about your child’s strengths and needs. Write a letter to assist with classroom placement. Look for ways for your child to meet kids from the new school but do not overwhelm. Give your child time to adjust. Remind your child often that making new friends does not mean replacing old friends. Be available after school starts. Understand that your child may need extra time, attention and support. Help your child explore ways to problem-solve and cope with concerns. Encourage your child to try new things at school. Continue to foster organizational skills and assist your child in becoming resilient, responsible and independent. Stay interested and provide rules and structure. After an adjustment period of time (around conferences), if your child is reluctant to go to school or seems truly unhappy, seek help from school professionals.

Important Information for Parents of Current NES Students: Expect the transition to be ultimately successful. Remain calm and positive. Model optimism and confidence. Remind students to be mindful and not pass judgement before getting to know new students. Lots of opportunities to make new friends. Encourage your child to discuss the transition by asking questions such as, “How are things going with the new changes? ” Make a list of your child’s questions and concerns. Together try to find the answers to the questions. Reassure your child that it is natural to feel apprehensive. There will be lots of changes but the foundation remains strong. Reinforce resiliency and the ability to cope with change. Plan to attend important events.

Resources: National Association of School Psychologists – www. nasponline. org School Kelly Family – www. schoolfamily. com Bear Counseling Website – www. kellybear. com

Easing the Transition Upcoming Activities

Upcoming Activities March 13 – Parent/Counselor Forum (You are here!) March - Pen Pal Letters will Begin April 25 - Open House at NES Introductions, tour and refreshments April 27 - Principal/Counselor Visits to WES 4 TH Grade Students May 11 – NES 5 th Grade Teachers Visit WES 4 th Grade Students May 20 – NES Spring Fling May 22 – Cooperative Games Day @ NES June 7 – Move Up Day @ NES WES and NES 4 th graders will meet the teachers and students in the upcoming grade at NES August New Student Orientation / Meet and Greet at NES Welcome Back picnic at NES

Easing the Transition Questions and Answers