Dr Mary O’Kane has shared some great ideas to assist Junior Infant pupils in their transition to “big school”.

Have you a little one starting school or preschool this September?

Remember the most important thing for children at times of transition is having ‘one good adult’ in their lives. Someone they can rely on to be a calm reassuring presence. This is a very strong protective factor for our children’s wellbeing. So, keep that in mind, your connection with your child is the most important support you can give! However, here are three very practical ways to support those who might struggle a little with separation anxiety.
Remember the most important thing for children at times of transition is having ‘one good adult’ in their lives. Someone they can rely on to be a calm reassuring presence. This is a very strong protective factor for our children’s well-being. So, keep that in mind, your connection with your child is the most important support you can give! However, here are three very practical ways to support those who might struggle a little with separation anxiety.

Matching Love Hearts:

Draw a little heart on your wrist, and a matching one on theirs. If they are missing you during the day, or just feel the need to connect with you, they put their fingers on the little heart. They will feel their pulse, like a reassuring heartbeat, when they touch their wrist. Let them know that you will press your love heart if you are missing them. You can also add a spray of your perfume or aftershave to their wrist, as another little connection to you.

Pebble in my Pocket:

Find two very similar pebbles, gem-stones or crystals. You keep one in your pocket and the child keeps the other in their pocket. Tell them that any time they feel a little nervous or are missing you they give their pebble a little squeeze. It is a very concrete reminder of their connection to you.

Worries in My Pocket:

Talk to your child about any worries they have about starting school. Write the worries down on pieces of paper. Then you put the pieces of paper in your pocket. Tell your child you are going to carry their worries for the day while they are in school, so they don’t have to carry them alone. This can really help to ease any fears they may have.

Finally, I am always an advocate for reading to children about topics they are struggling with, or challenges they are facing. My favourite three books for children about to start school or preschool are:

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn.
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst.
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell.

I would love to hear if you have any other tips that have worked for you in the past.

Best of luck everyone!