The first week of school can be exciting for children, but it can also come with new routines, new classmates and different expectations. Some children will happily talk about everything that happened, while others may need a little encouragement before they open up.
Instead of only asking, “How was school?”, parents can ask simple questions that help them understand how their child is settling in.
Here are five things parents should ask about their child’s first school week:
1. How did you feel at school?
This simple question gives your child room to talk about their emotions. They may have felt excited, nervous, lonely, happy or even confused during the first few days.
Listen without immediately judging or correcting them. Knowing how your child feels can help you understand how well they are adjusting.
2. Who did you spend time with?
Friendships can make a big difference to a child’s school experience. Ask who they played with, sat beside or spent time with during break.
You may also learn if your child is finding it easy to make friends or is having difficulty connecting with other children.
3. What was the easiest and hardest part of your day?
This question can reveal more than simply asking whether your child enjoyed school. They may find lessons easy but struggle with waking up early, getting along with classmates or adjusting to the school routine.
Their answer can help you know where they may need extra support.
4. Did anything happen that made you uncomfortable?
Children do not always mention unpleasant experiences unless they are asked. Give them an opportunity to talk about anything that made them feel uncomfortable, worried or upset.
Pay attention to their response and take their concerns seriously, especially if they mention repeated teasing, bullying or problems with another child or an adult.
5. What are you looking forward to next week?
End the conversation on a positive note. Ask about the lessons, activities, friends or events they are looking forward to.
It can also help you understand what your child enjoys about school and give you something positive to discuss with them as the new school routine continues.
The first week of school is a good time for parents to pay attention to more than their child’s grades. A simple conversation can reveal how they are coping emotionally, socially and academically as they settle into the new term.