Back-to-School Social Story

How odd to write a back-to-school post on the 30th June, but, as the entire year has been odd, I suppose this is not surprising. 

Many of our early years children return to school/playschool tomorrow here in Malaysia, so I have put together a social story explaining some of the changes the children may face. 

It’s free to download and will hopefully support this transition by explaining some of the changes that may be expected.

Here is a sample of some of the pages for you:

Empowering our children to develop the ability to deal with change is one of the most important skills we can give them. Many children accustomed to now being at home may show signs of stress and anxiety about returning to school. Don’t be surprised if you notice behaviours such as your child being:

• clingy

• moody or irritable

• angry

• nervous, worried or afraid

• less sociable than usual 

• quieter than usual

• sad

There are several steps you can take to help.

• Acknowledge their fears and offer them reassurance.

• Talk through the changes they might expect and ways to handle these changes. Use today’s story to support this conversation. Encourage your child to ask their teacher for help if they are unsure about what to do.

• Ask them to consider any positive aspects about the return to school – seeing friends and their teacher again.

• Make a plan to spend some time together after school such that you can hear all about their day and they have dedicated time with you.

• If you are feeling anxious about the return, this will rub off on them. Try to maintain a positive attitude, knowing that your child’s safety and well-being will be the top priority for everyone at school.

Take care and stay safe!