Adjusting to a New School

How two local families made it a positive experience—Michelle Plucinsky (at left, above) went from a class of 21 to a class of 250 when she entered Allentown Central Catholic High School three years ago. Joining the school’s summer music camp beforehand helped her make friends. Here, she’s with Sara Werth and Alison Bauer.

Sheri Stephens supports her sons Derek (left) and Patrick by getting to know teachers and reading school newsletters. Derek just completed his senior year at Parkland High; Patrick completed eighth grade at Orefield Middle School.

How can a parent help? “Sympathize with your child’s fear of the unknown,” Schaefgen says, “but be positive about the change.”

Moving up to middle or high school

“ Most schools have an orientation program for students moving to the next level,” says Gerald Zinner, assistant superintendent at East Penn School District. It’s an opportunity for children and parents to learn about the new course of studies, meet some of the teachers and tour the building before classes start.

Typically, students moving from elementary to middle school must cope with a larger place where they’re expected to be more independent and organized. Having a locker, changing classes and working with different teachers can be stressful. “Knowing what to expect makes the transition easier,” Zinner says.

Moving to a new area

If a new school is challenging, a whole new town is even more so. “Contrary to popular belief, the best time to move is during the school year,” Zinner says. “The teacher will give your child extra attention and often assign a buddy to help with the new routine.” Register your child several weeks ahead of arrival day, he says, and arrange for the child’s records to be sent so the new school has time to do a thoughtful placement.

“Helping children get familiar with the new area will minimize their anxiety,” Schaefgen says. “Take them to the parks and the library. Encourage participation in activities where they can make new friends.”

If your child is not adjusting well

There are lots of signals to alert you to adjustment problems. “Kindergarteners may revert to thumb-sucking or want to sleep with their parents,” Schaefgen says. Elementary school children may have stomachaches or vomiting, and older children may complain of headaches or show signs of depression or substance abuse. The underlying problem may be a reluctance to go to school. “If your child misses more than two or three days due to these symptoms, consult your family physician,” Schaefgen says.

Classroom behavior is another good indicator of adjustment problems, Zinner says. Outgoing personalities may withdraw, and good students may start balking at homework. Some youngsters refuse to join extracurricular activities at the new school.

It’s not uncommon for a student’s grades to dip while he gets used to a new school, so don’t be too concerned initially. “If you notice a change in your child’s attitude or behavior, ask for a teacher conference,” Zinner says. “At the high school level, the guidance counselor can arrange a meeting with teachers and counselors.”

Good communication is crucial at this stressful time, Zinner and Schaefgen agree. Encourage your son or daughter to talk about how things are going. Help him or her see change in a positive way. Contact the school or your physician if you suspect there is a problem.

And remember: “After the initial adjustment, most kids grow to love their new situation,” Schaefgen says.

Want to Know More about helping your child adjust to a school in a new area? Click here or call 610-402-CARE. Click here for a listing of age appropriate reading material. Click here to learn more about adjusting to new schools—including tips from the students on these pages and others.

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