News

As promised in last week's news, here are the last two stages of the "W Curve of School Adjustment." Understanding what to expect as your preschool or young elementary child transitions to a school setting helps parents be effective resources for their children. Click here to read Part 1 which discussed the first three stages: Honeymoon, Culture Shock and Initial Adjustment.  Can you identify your child's current stage?

The Holiday Blues can happen after any break from the school routine. If your child is home due to illness or a family vacation, the return to school can be bumpy.  The blues can also occur after school breaks such as Labor Day weekend or Thanksgiving Break. The longer the break or the more exciting the reason, the more likely your child will experience the Holiday Blues.  You can compare this to how you may feel about Monday morning after a relaxing weekend. Parents may worry that their child has regressed or question whether he/she likes school anymore.  Because changes in routine, diet and sleep patterns play a major role in your child’s temperament and contribute to the holiday blues, please plan vacations during scheduled school breaks.  

• Your child feels withdrawn, tired or sluggish, and clingy.
• You feel bewildered and ask yourself Could there be something wrong or did something happen at school? Is Montessori right for my child?
• Your child says: I want to stay home with you. I am too tired to go to school. Don’t you want to spend time with me? When is the weekend, Daddy? 
• You can help by reminding your child that vacations are special times that we all enjoy, but we still need to go to school to learn and grow and by keeping the routine as normal as possible when on vacation and when you return to school. Comfort and reassure your child but don’t give in to your child’s just-this-once requests; your child will learn that your word does not count and that you can be manipulated. Keep in contact with your child’s Teacher so you know the difference between the Holiday Blues and something more to your child’s reluctance to return to school.

 
Acceptance & Integration The last and most desirable stage is characterized by joy and happy anticipation of school on a daily basis.  When your child reaches this stage, parents often feel validated and elated knowing they have found the right fit for their child. The child often shares their daily experiences with his/her parents and likes to explain new concepts he/she is learning.          

• Your child feels self-confident, joyful, cheerful and contented.    
• You feel self-assured, relieved and at home in the community.
• Your child says: I’m going to learn a new math work today. I can’t wait to see my friends. My teacher is the best.
• You can help by supporting your child as he/she builds on classroom learning; you may want to visit a nature center or museum during your weekends. Find ways to connect with your child’s friends outside of school. Make sure your child has responsibilities at home – this sends the message that he/she is capable both in and outside of school. Involve your child in the everyday activities of the home, like cooking, cleaning and gardening. Pat yourself on the back for weathering the stages of your child’s adjustment to school!