May 4, 2016 Carrie Rossouw

How To Help Your Child Succeed In School

The start of a new school year can be both exciting and overwhelming for children and parents alike. Whether your child is entering junior school, moving up a grade, or starting high school, the transition often comes with challenges. Alongside academic pressures, children face emotional, physical, and social changes that can be difficult to navigate. Fortunately, there are several ways parents can help smooth this transition and set their children up for success. Our clinical psychologist shares some expert advice to help parents support their children during this time of change.

1. Recognise the Different Challenges at Each Stage

Each stage of schooling comes with its own set of challenges. Young children in preschool and early junior school years may face different social and academic hurdles compared to those in Grades 5 to 7. For example, the first school experience or transitioning to a new school environment can be a source of anxiety. As children grow older, these challenges become more complex. High school learners, for instance, must balance academics with a growing social life, make future career decisions, and cope with increased peer pressure.

It’s essential to remain an active listener and provide support, especially during these transitional periods. Keeping communication open with your child, regardless of their age, is crucial. Instead of lecturing, take the time to listen to their concerns. A safe and open space allows them to share their feelings freely.

2. Prepare Your Child for New School Experiences

Starting a new school or transitioning to a higher grade can cause anxiety, especially for children who are shy or sensitive. Preparing your child in advance for these changes can make all the difference. If your child is starting Grade 1, for example, it helps to discuss the changes they’ll face and familiarise them with the school beforehand. Taking a visit to the school together is a great way to reduce unfamiliarity and build confidence.

For high school students, discussions about the highs and lows of school life will help them understand the changes they will experience. Reassure them that making new friends and adjusting to new surroundings takes time, and that it’s perfectly normal to feel apprehensive. Consider natural remedies like K OK Kiddie Calmer, a 100% homeopathic remedy that can help ease anxiety in younger children, especially those with separation anxiety. For older children, MindSoothe Jr can help alleviate stress and anxiety related to school transitions.

3. Get Involved in Your Child’s Education

Parental involvement plays a significant role in your child’s academic success. By meeting their teachers, attending parent-teacher meetings, and showing interest in your child’s learning, you demonstrate the value of education. Additionally, keeping teachers informed about any learning disorders or personal challenges your child might face will help them better support your child.

Studies have shown that children whose parents are involved in their school life tend to achieve better grades. Staying informed about school activities and fundraising events will also allow you to show your child that education is important to the whole family.

4. Encourage Learning at Home

Creating a positive attitude towards learning at home is essential. Encourage reading and make it a habit from an early age. Limit screen time and encourage children to engage in other activities like sports, arts, and crafts to broaden their horizons and foster curiosity.

Physical exercise is crucial too. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, so encourage your child to be active. Whether through running, playing, or other activities, physical movement is key to developing skills and boosting brain function.

5. Monitor Homework and Assignments

Keeping track of your child’s homework is important, especially for younger children. However, it's also crucial that they learn responsibility by taking ownership of their tasks. Avoid the temptation to complete assignments for them. Instead, guide them through challenges and allow them to take the lead in managing their own work.

Children with learning disorders, such as ADHD or ADD, may struggle more with homework. In these cases, additional support may be necessary. Natural remedies like Focus & Calm and BrightSpark can support children with ADHD by improving concentration and reducing hyperactivity. These remedies work alongside healthy lifestyle habits to improve focus and memory.

6. Help Your Child Prepare for Exams and Tests

Exam preparation is often an overlooked aspect of a child’s education. Many children, especially in the earlier grades, don’t realise that re-reading a chapter isn’t enough to pass an exam. It’s important to teach study techniques such as writing down key points, using flashcards, and quizzing themselves or with a family member.

For teenagers studying for larger exams, consider supporting them with BrainShine, a natural remedy that aids concentration and mental alertness. A balanced diet, exercise, and rest will also help optimise their focus during study sessions.

It’s natural for children to feel anxious before exams. Reassure them that these feelings are normal, and provide them with emotional support to navigate the stress of test-taking.

By staying proactive and engaged, parents can help their children not only survive but thrive through the challenges of a new school year. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s health or education, don’t hesitate to reach out for personalised advice. We love hearing from you and are always here to help!

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