“Will I have new friends?” a preschooler might wonder when told about moving to a new home or starting at a different school. Such changes can feel overwhelming for young children, as they are still adjusting to the comfort of their familiar routines and environments. New faces, different surroundings, and shifts in their daily activities can create feelings of uncertainty, even if they don’t voice it. However, with a thoughtful and supportive approach to early childhood care, parents can help guide their preschoolers through these transitions, fostering a sense of security and resilience.
Best Strategies for Helping Preschoolers Cope with Change
1. Talk to Them: Sit down with your child and say, “At your new school, you’ll make new friends and explore fun activities like story and playtime.” Talking about the exciting changes helps them feel more comfortable and ready to embrace the new experience.
2. Accept Their Feelings: If your child says, “I’m scared about going to the new school,” acknowledge their feelings by saying, “It’s okay to feel scared, I felt that way too when I tried something new.” By accepting and validating their emotions, you help them understand that it’s normal to have mixed feelings about changes.
3. Create a Timetable: Establishing a consistent routine like “We’ll have lunch at 12, then take a nap at 2,” helps your child feel secure. When they know what to expect, they’re better able to adjust to new experiences, like starting at a new school.
4. Familiarize Them with the New Environment: Take your child to visit their new school a few days before the first day, showing them the classroom, playground, and introducing them to their future teacher. This gives them a chance to explore the new space and meet familiar faces, making the first day feel less intimidating.
5. Bring Comfort Items: Carry along common items like a certain blanket or a toy as these help in bringing comfort in alien situations. Such things can be very useful for your child to use in their Early years.
6. Don’t Forget to Keep Them In the Loop: Let your child help decide where their toys or books will go in the new room, saying, “You can place your stuffed animals on this shelf, and your books can go on that table.” Involving them in the process gives them a sense of control and helps them feel more confident about the change.
7. Amusement in the Move: As you explore the new home, say, “Look, this room will be perfect for our treasure hunts, and we can make the backyard a race track!” Making the move feel like an exciting adventure helps your child see it as a fun opportunity rather than something to fear.
8. Emphasize on the Good Aspects: Point out the park near your new home and say, “Look, we can have picnics here and play on the swings every weekend!” By highlighting fun features nearby, you help your child focus on the exciting possibilities of the new place.
9. Be Patient When Making The Transition: Instead of moving everything at once, let your child spend some time in the new home a few hours each day, exploring their new room or playing in the backyard. Gradually adjusting to the space helps them feel more comfortable and less overwhelmed by the change.
10. Promote Early Friendships: Arrange a playdate with a neighbor or classmate by saying, “Let’s invite him or her over to play with your toys this afternoon!” Meeting new friends in a relaxed setting helps your child feel more at ease and excited about building new connections.
Conclusion
Moving houses or changing schools for preschoolers can be challenging, but they can cope smoothly when supported in a proper way. By maintaining stable routines, encouraging communication, and helping children through their new social life, families can ease the stress of these changes. At Podar Prep, we provide a supportive environment for children during these transitions. To find Podar Prep Preschool near you, click here!
