Dos and Don’ts (and that’s just parents!)
For the first few weeks try not to bombard them with questions as soon as they come home. Don’t pass on anxieties or speak negatively about teachers or classmates. Let them form their own opinions. Try not to overshadow any aspect of this new experience because, as Brian Gallagher Secondary school guidance teacher says, “this is their clean slate”.
Remember secondary schools have excellent support systems in place. “School professionals have seen and heard it all before, your teen will have form tutors, year heads, counsellors, class heads, literally a team of staff looking out for them academically, physically and socially” says Brian reassuringly.
Secondary school teachers will also have received their individual educational passport from their primary school which provides a profile of each student. They will be well equipped to support them on an individual basis.
Subtlety works better with young teens (SBTL), so Smile, Bite your Tongue and Listen! They need your support even if they give the impression they don’t. They are not as confident as they seem. They’ll have longer days, so they’ll be tired and hungrier than ever. Stock up with healthy grazing food (for your own sake - a drop in blood sugars can lead to mood swings!) and try not to worry. Top marks Parents. You’ve got this and them this far and that’s no mean feat!
