BACK to school?

It can be a daunting time for children when they start school or even move up to a new year - but what about their parents?

If you've been a nervous wreck in the build up to school term starting again, these tips on surviving the next few days could help.

1. Listen to their worries

Starting school for the first time is one of the biggest things in an individual’s life – and for someone so young the biggest thing so far. Try not to be anxious about it as your child will pick up on this and be anxious too; instead be super excited about this new stage in their life and celebrate their success once they’ve got through day one, and then week one. If they are worried about anything, talk to them and listen to their concerns and reassure them they have nothing to worry about.

2. Give them independence

A little bit of independence can go a long way when a child begins school. Things like putting on their coat, taking off their jumper and managing socks and shoes can seem small but will be enormous in if they can’t do it and their fellow pupils can. Encourage your child to master these skills.

3. Make friends with their friends’ parents

Once your child has made friends really get to know them and make an effort with their parents. Arrange play dates. Having friends is one of the most important thing for children to help them settle into a new environment and so support them as much as possible.

4. Seek out hobbies for your child so school isn’t the be-all and end-all

School can cause a lot of pressure for children, so hobbies can help them let off steam. From ballet to football, art to girl guides, doing activities after school will help them meet new friends and gain confidence.

5. Help yourself with homework

For many parents, homework is one of the biggest worries on the return to school – either encouraging their child to get it done, or helping them along the way, particularly amongst those parents who may not feel 100 per cent confident in their own abilities. Talk to your teacher about any concerns you have around the current curriculum, or sign up to parent-tutor sessions.

*Tips provided by Charlotte Gater, head of curriculum at tuition provider, Explore Learning, which has 129 centres across the UK.