Now that your child has set off for school, he will be involved in a world of grazed knees, tearful misunderstandings, making friends and fascinated learning. When the tears start flowing, a classmate doesn’t invite your child to a birthday party or when help is needed with homework, remember you will be the first person your child will want.
Developing social skills
When children start school, it’s the first time; they have to think about fitting into a social group. While your child will be on their own at school, there’s still a lot you can do to guide him.
Help your child make friends.
Encourage him to play with other children in his class, in his neighbourhood and help him meet other children through after school activities and sleepovers.
Give tips on ways to deal with different situations at school and with friends
Speak to him about situations or conflicts he is having, for example say to him ‘Perhaps if you shared your new toy you might make a new friend.‘ Help your child develop empathy and the ability to understand different points of view. This will help give him the ability to deal with conflict on his own. Talk about feelings and ask him how his actions have made others feel. It’s also a good idea to talk about teasing and bullying and how this affects others. Ensure your child understands how any of this behaviour would make another child feel.
