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The transition from elementary to high school: How to help kids adapt

Published on August 27, 2024 at 16:59 / Updated on August 27, 2024 at 18:41

Entering high school is a very important milestone—albeit a scary one—in a child’s educational journey, as it requires significant adaptation.

Support from parents is key to helping kids prepare for this transition and make it as smooth as possible.

The challenges of the transition from elementary to high school

Elementary and high school differ in many ways and bring about numerous changes for the child.

Adolescence

Entering high school coincides with the onset of adolescence (around age 12), which already involves its own set of changes, both physiological and psychological, among others, as well as in terms of identity.

At the same time, students must be able to cope with their new school environment and all its challenges, which can lead to uncertainty and stress.

The school ecosystem

High schools operate under a very different system from elementary schools. Students face, among other things, the following challenges:

  • A larger number of students in school as well as in the classrooms
  • Changing classrooms and teachers several times a day
  • Breaks between classes instead of recess
  • An increase in the amount of homework and study time
  • A loss of seniority (being the oldest in elementary school, but the youngest in high school)

Opening up discussions allows kids to become familiar with the upcoming changes, so they are fully prepared to take on this new stage of life.

Young people's main concerns

It is perfectly normal for a child to have several concerns or questions about entering high school, as everything is new to them.

They may feel a certain level of insecurity regarding various issues, for example:

  • The fear of getting lost in the school
  • The difficulty of making new friends (bullying)
  • The fear of being late to a class
  • The additional homework and study load
  • The different routines and rules
  • Communication with their teachers
  • Etc.

The best thing parents can do is to be attentive to their children and take their fears or concerns seriously. They should try to reassure them and answer their questions as best as possible.

It is important to know that in high school, there are also many resources available to students and their parents.

Preparing for high school

The transition from elementary to high school takes place over several months. Therefore, some planning must be made before kids make the big leap.

Open house days

Participating in the high school’s open house events can help reduce the kids’ stress and anxiety. Kids can familiarize themselves with their new environment and pinpoint areas, such as their lockers, the cafeteria, the gymnasium, the restrooms, the office, etc.

Organizing school supplies

Parents should feel comfortable intervening at the beginning of the year to help kids organize their school supplies, that is, the notebooks, books, and other accessories they need for their classes, homework, and studying at home.

Learning to manage an agenda also requires some initial learning, to record important dates for exams and assignments.

After a while, kids will be able to manage their supplies and school tasks independently.

Orientation day

Orientation day is an important day for students starting high school. Being accompanied by a parent on the first day often helps kids feel more confident.

If parents are not available, a friend or acquaintance who attends the same school can fulfill this role so that kids feel less alone.

The positive side of high school

Getting into the habit of talking positively about high school at home helps kids form a pleasant idea of their new school and has a great effect on their motivation.

It is worthwhile to discuss the variety of extracurricular activities kids participate in, the greater freedom in high school, the learning, and the new encounters.

The transition from elementary to high school is a stage that combines both excitement and apprehension for young people. Parents often serve as models and guides to help them navigate this period as smoothly as possible.

Have a great school year!

Text written in collaboration with Vie de Parents.

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