Kidspace kids are on the move, literally. It's that season when our oldest friends prepare to head off for Kindergarten, younger children move up to new classrooms, and new friends join a class at Kidspace for the first time. Changes bring with them some disequilibrium, and disequilibrium brings with it challenges and growth. Apprehension can be strong, and emotions can run high, and so can excitement and curiosity. It's a destabilized mixed bag of experiences. Change can be challenging: I'm unsure about this, I don't know what to do or expect, I don't know these people or this space. Change can be affirming: I'm capable, I'm competent, I'm getting bigger, my friend is here with me, that teacher is nice, this is fun!
I asked Kidspace teachers what they thought would be most helpful for parents to understand in order to support families through transitions. Here are some of their thoughtful reflections on this.
First, it is helpful for parents to understand that change can be challenging for everyone. It is not only a transition for children, but for parents and staff as well. We are all "getting to know each other," learning what is needed and finding our way with new routines. That takes time.
Please know that teachers want to be as available as possible to parents right from the start to address any questions or concerns you may have. Anticipate that your child may be reticent or have strong
emotions as they begin their new class. They may even experience some temporary regression in some areas. It can be very helpful in the beginning to show confidence, warmth and patience in your manner and allow a little extra time at pick ups and drop offs. Teachers recommend you adopt lighthearted and fun hello and goodbye rituals such as asking your child if they'd like to give you one last hug or if they want to push you gently out the door.
They expressed to me that establishing clear communication is key to eliminating some of the rough edges transitions can bring. There is lots of new information explaining classroom routines and policies for parents to become familiar with. Teachers try to help families know what to expect. Reading all the materials teachers provide keeps parents in the know and helps them better understand and navigate the transition. We hope for smooth beginnings, so attending to a few things right at the start definitely helps avoid problems. For instance, arriving after a long day at work to discover one of your child's belongings is missing can really be annoying. Teachers will not have yet learned what items
belong to which child, and many personal belongings are similar or the
same. So taking a few minutes to clearly label
each of your child's items of clothing and all their belongings is very helpful in preventing this common occurrence. It's also helpful if parents can familiarize themselves with any new class routines and policies and have patience and some flexibility (when reasonable) as everyone makes this transition together. Discuss with teachers how you like to engage with your child when picking up and dropping off, and what your own expectations are for interacting with staff at those times. Do you need the teachers' help to make an exit when parting from your child? Please let them know directly, "Can you help my child get ready to push me out the door?"--each family has differing needs and expectations and teachers need your cue as to what assistance you may expect and want from them in the moment. Do you crave a detailed discussion with the teacher about your child's day when you return, but they are occupied with the class? Talk with them and work out how you both might better connect to communicate.
There are important forms to update and return promptly. The teachers so appreciate when you can fill these out and return them quickly. Most important are the Emergency Contact Cards where you list your contact numbers and authorize who may pick up your child from Kidspace) and the signed permission forms for diaper cream or sunscreen application (considered medications by the state and therefore must be updated every 6 months with your signature).
All the changes and new demands that occur when moving from room
to room can feel stressful for children and parents (new routines, new schedules, new paperwork to turn in, new environments, new ways of
storing and caring for personal belongings). Know that children can have strong emotions as they make transitions. Its important to acknowledge and accept the emotions children display in response to all this newness...tears, frustration, defiance, fear...and to
help them work through these emotions appropriately. Crying is really okay. Please be assured it will dissipate in time and that Kidspace teachers will be right there supporting your child in the midst of their emotions.
Teachers are just getting acquainted with many new children and all their family members in this season of transition. They must gather and keep track of all the new
information about children and families without knowing them well yet. There is an increase in the amount of time routines take as they learn names, individual schedules, diapering and toileting status, any allergy and medical
information, and help children and parents learn the ins and outs of the new classroom. They appreciate your understanding, support and patience as we all start the new school year together. Above all, they are learning about your unique child, giving them security and love in the midst of many changes, and forming a strong bond with them that will help carry us all through these transitions and into an amazing year of development together.
I am wishing each family well as you and your little ones begin this season of new adventures at Kidspace!
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