In a few weeks’ time, many parents will be sending their children to school for the first time. Parents are often left feeling worried and concerned about relinquishing their day to day care responsibilities, while many children take new school life in their stride.
Once the obligatory first day at school photo has been taken, the reality of the day ahead can be a little overwhelming.
As parents, it is natural to pre-empt problems and to feel concerned that teachers will not recognise signs that your child is in distress or needs assistance. Starting school can also be the longest period of time parents and children have been separated, creating further anxieties.
Additionally, starting school can produce new pressures for working parents around organising the dropping off and collection of children, with some parents having to pass this responsibility over to a child minder or family member.
It is vital parents have a support system in place and the guidance a helpline practitioner can offer will help to reduce parental stress. Children are very adaptable and one of their many developmental stages is to learn coping mechanisms around change. Anyone who needs to contact helpline for advice can either call 0808 800 5000, text: 88858, email: [email protected] or visit nspcc.org.uk
