The Educator Magazine U.K. Sept-Dec 2024 issue - Magazine - Page 56

Helping Pupils with
transition back into
the classroom after
the holidays
transitions, any underlying emotional
or behavioural issues, and their overall
wellbeing. Creating a supportive and
reassuring environment can
significantly impact the pupil’s ability
to cope with change. Open
communication, patience, and a
tailored approach are key elements in
assisting these pupils.
The return to school after a holiday
break can be a challenging time for
pupils and teachers alike.
Transitioning from the relaxed pace
of holidays to the structured
environment of a classroom requires
adjustment and can often lead to
anxiety and stress. This guide aims to
provide teachers with practical
strategies to support pupils during
this period, ensuring a smooth and
positive reintegration into school life.
Why Pupils Struggle with
Change and Transition
Transitions can be difficult for many
pupils due to the significant shift in
routine and environment. During
holidays, children often enjoy a more
flexible schedule, increased leisure time,
and different social interactions
compared to the school setting.
This change can disrupt their sense
of stability and predictability, leading
to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.
Additionally, some pupils may face
additional challenges, such as separation anxiety, academic pressure, or
social difficulties, making the transition
even more daunting.
Supporting a Child that
Struggles with Transition
When supporting pupils who
struggle with transition, teachers need
to approach the situation with
empathy and understanding.
Recognising the individual needs and
triggers of each child is crucial.
Teachers should consider factors such
as the pupil’s previous experiences with
10 Things Teachers Can Do to
Help Pupils with Transition
• Establish a Routine: Reintroduce a
consistent daily schedule to provide
structure and predictability.
• Communicate Clearly: Provide clear
and concise information about what to
expect in the coming days and weeks.
• Create a Welcoming Environment:
Decorate the classroom in a way that is
inviting and familiar to the pupils.
• Offer Reassurance: Provide emotional
support and reassurance, reminding
pupils that it is expected to feel anxious
about returning.
• Incorporate Transitional Activities:
Use activities that gradually shift from
holiday mode to school mode, such as
sharing holiday experiences or setting
new goals.
• Engage in Team Building: Facilitate
group activities that promote social
interaction and collaboration among
pupils.
• Monitor and Support: Keep an eye on
pupils who seem particularly anxious
and offer additional support where
needed.
• Use Visual Aids: Employ visual
schedules and charts to help pupils
understand and anticipate the day’s
activities.
• Promote Self-Regulation: Teach
techniques for managing stress and
anxiety, such as deep breathing or
mindfulness exercises.
• Encourage Parental Involvement:
Maintain open lines of communication
with parents to ensure consistent
support at home and school.
SUPPORT FOR PARENTS
Here are five ways parents
Support Their Children with
Back to School Transition
• Establish a Routine: Reinstate schooltime routines at least a week before
school starts to help children adjust.
• Talk About School: Discuss what
children are looking forward to and any
concerns they may have about
returning to school.
• Prepare Together: Involve children in
preparing for school, such as packing
their school bags or picking out their
clothes.
• Set a Positive Tone: Encourage a
positive outlook on returning to school
by highlighting exciting activities or
seeing friends again.
• Stay Informed: Keep in touch with
teachers to stay updated on the child’s
progress and any support they might
need.
The transition back to school after the
holidays can be a challenging time for
pupils, but with the proper support
and strategies, it can also be a period of
positive growth and adjustment.
Teachers play a crucial role in
facilitating this transition, and by
creating a supportive and structured
environment, they can help pupils
navigate this change successfully.
Collaboration with parents and
empowering pupils to take an active
role in their transition can further
enhance the process, ensuring a
smooth and productive return to the
classroom.
You can download our free transition
toolkit here; please feel free to share it
with your colleagues.
https://lumii.me/transition-toolkit/
Laura Tristram is a teacher, mum,
and mental health and wellbeing
lead at Lumii.me

Paperturn flipbook system