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pathways to parenting easing the transition into a
new
school
starting a
new
school
is kind of a big deal. who are we kidding? it is a big deal! not only does a child have to squash first day jitters, but he also has to worry about making friends and finding his way around the
school
on top of learning
new
subjects. but don?t worry, mom! we?re here to help. here are a few tips on how to ease the transition into a
new
school
. tour the
school
. take your children with you on a tour around the
school
so they can get a feel for the environ- ment before the first day. don?t forget the restrooms! get them involved. ?most
school
s have websites with contact informa- tion for individuals who may be coach- ing a sport or leading a club activity in the summer. see if there is an opportu- nity to meet other kids in a small group setting,? says donna b.
fargason
, md of family focus & associates. teach them how to make friends. start with teaching them how to start a con- versation. ?i like the three question rule. when meeting someone
new
, if you can ask that person at least three ques- tions, then they will begin to talk about themselves,? dr.
fargason
explains. while inserting into friend groups can be tricky, dr.
fargason
recommends children to be friendly but hold off from committing to a group. they should take their time, float around, and get to know different people. fake it ?til you make it. ?i don?t mean be different people, but instead be their best selves, even if they don?t feel like it. smile, speak, engage?even if it doesn?t feel natural at first. a child only gets one chance to make a first impres - sion, so shoulders back, chin up, and exude confidence,? says dr.
fargason
. while a
new
start can be scary, it can also be a great beginning to some- thing special. august 2016 | brparents.com 17
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