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The beginning of the school year can bring a variety of emotions for adults and children: excitement, dread, stress, joy, fear, and anxiety, to name a few. If children in care are starting the school year in a new school district, fear and anxiety might drown out any feelings of positivity. New teachers, new classmates, and a new curriculum are all factors that may feel overwhelming.
How can you support families during this stressful time? Here are a few ideas to share:
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Organize a meet and greet. Teachers and administrators are often available to meet before the first day of school – take advantage of that by scheduling an appointment. If possible, introduce the kids in care to other children attending the same school so they will have a few familiar faces waiting for them.
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Look for the positives. Perhaps there is a sport the child has always wanted to play or an instrument they are looking forward to learning or getting back to. What excites the child in this upcoming school year? Focus on that.
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Turn back to school shopping into a school celebration. Let the child pick out their own backpack and choose clothes that express their personality. Make a day of it, including lunch at a favorite spot. A new school year is a new beginning, a fresh start!
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Take a photo. Even if you must chase a teenager down on that first morning of school, take a picture anyway, eye-rolling and all. The image will communicate to the child in care that you are proud of them and excited to mark the occasion of a new grade level.
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Have a casual chat when they come home from school. After a snack, of course! Share excitement over the details of their day. Have a conversation about the similarities and differences from their previous school.
As a Foster Care Coordinator, you can be involved as well. Perhaps you could send a quick note in the mail wishing the child a great first day or schedule a visit with the family shortly before or after school starts. When children see trusted adults taking an interest in their education, they are more likely to want to succeed!
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