Starting a new school can be both an exciting and challenging prospect for all children. However, for adopted children this might be even more of an overwhelming experience. There are several things you can do to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible in this new environment. Read on to discover how you can help your adopted child settle into school.
Communicate with the school as much as you need
As a parent of an adopted child, you should not be afraid to communicate with your child’s school as much as you need. While you may feel apprehensive about being a pushy parent, a quality school will care about your ideas and concerns. More importantly, they should understand that a child with a history of trauma or associated with the care system may need additional support. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch to help work out the best possible outcome for your child.
Ask the teacher to keep an eye on your child
Particularly important if your child has undergone trauma in their earlier life, as parents it’s crucial to be aware of certain behaviours or conversations that take place during school hours - even if they seem insignificant. From the start, you should let the teacher of your child know that you would like to be informed if there is anything even slightly out of the ordinary about how your child behaves or speaks. While it may turn out to be nothing, it could also be the missing piece in the puzzle of working out what your child is thinking and feeling, how it presents and what strategies you can help them use to manage it.
Maintain active involvement with the school
You don't have to join the PTA or become a governor to maintain an active involvement with your child’s school. What you can do, however, is read the letters, check the school's social media, download their communication apps, keep in touch with what's going on and turn up to events. This will convey the importance of education to your child, while showing you have confidence in the establishment you have entrusted them to for hours on end every week. Equally, it will also show the school that you are a credible and engaged parent - meaning they will be much more receptive to any ideas about additional training or accommodations that can help support your child.
Learn how to deal with problems quickly
If your child is going through issues at school, you should try and resolve these as quickly as possible. Speak to your child’s teacher first to avoid problems from spiralling to the point where they make school life difficult for your child. If this doesn’t work, speak to the member of the leadership team responsible for your child's key stage and/or the headteacher, depending on the size of the school.
At DJP Solicitors, we help with child adoption cases, including assisting with details about relocation, education provision and medical care disputes. For reliable legal advice you can count on, get in touch with us today.
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