Not only is Dr. O'Kane an Associate Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Education, she is also a friend of the show, a regular contributor, and if Mary was a fish - she would be the salmon of knowledge!!
We love having Mary in studio, so she popped in to offer us, and our listeners, some invaluable guidance for when the kids are going to school, either for the first time, or starting a new class.
Mary's first suggestion is to remind yourself that they (the children) are ready - they've got this. Sure, they have things to learn, but you have trained them well over the past few years so they stand in good stead. If they weren't, then you would not have put them forward for it (for first timers).
Asking the teacher is one of the most important things; teach them to trust their teacher and that no question is stupid - they are on your side.
There is always room for improvement though, for as one of my favourite quotes states, "every day is a school day" (excuse the pun). With this in mind, people can equip their children with various tools to help aid their comfort, and coping mechanisms, whilst in the classroom. Simple things like:
- Starting school books: These books contain lots of information about the things parents may take for granted; "How do I ask the teacher how to go to the bathroom?", "What time do we have lunch?", "Where can I find certain things in the classroom?", are all the types of queries children will have. Do NOT assume your child knows everything.
- Lunch trials: Prepare a mock lunch-time at home and observe how capable your child is at opening containers, unscrewing lids, actually eating the food etc. These can cause difficulty in school, so teaching them at home will be a great boost. Also make sure to pack food your child will definitely eat, otherwise they will be hungry and lose focus/become tired.
- Early bedtime: This is key to ensure your child is well rested and ready for the busy days ahead. It is not in their best interest to be exhausted. Parents can also have all prepped the night before to avoid stress in the morning time.
Some children may be a bit anxious about their new surroundings, so there are a few concepts that are proven to work:
- Spray some of your perfume/aftershave on a hanky (some material) so they can have your scent as a comforter.
- A lucky charm, or matching item (coin/pencil top/bracelet etc.), can give them a connection to you and act as a little reminder that you are, in essence, there with them. You take one of the items and they take the other. Tell them to hold on that if they feel afraid.
If children come home from school a bit disgruntled, give them some space to switch off and gather their thoughts, for it's been a long day and they will come around.
Dr. Mary also gave us her thoughts on what Leaving Certificate students can do on receiving their results. DON'T PANIC is #1 on the list, and believe us, that's the best advice around. There is also the National Parent's Council's Helpline, where qualified guidance counsellors are on the phone line to give advice and support to parents and students. The number is 1800 265 165.
Listen to the segment in full here:
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