First school term done – some thoughts from a newbie mum

My oldest started school this year.   It was a momentous occasion for both me and him. Now that the first term is done and dust what have I learned?  I’ll be honest I was quite apprehensive about how we would all adapt to this new routine but its funny how we worry so unnecessarily. School life has become part of everyday life. As a total newbie into the school system the first couple of months have been a learning experience for this mama too.  And for those at the far end of this school system don’t forget for those a use the resources at your disposal such as UCAS phone number if you do have any queries on college or university admissions.

 

Parents Perspective

Perhaps the biggest  learning point for me was  to become super organised.  That’s having the clothes out the night before, lunches made and bags packed. Jennie from Rice Cakes and Raisins had the same advice, keep the shoes all lined up at the front door to avoid the inevitable morning panic searching the house for them or for the match! I reached out to my fellow first time school parents to see what they thought after completing the first term their top tips are:

• Jemma from Have Kids will Travel UK found of the great learning to be dealing with the new ups and downs of school friendships and not being there for them every minute. It can be so hard when your child comes home and says they were on their own or had nobody to play  with it, it just breaks my heart.
• In a similar vein Michelle from What Mummy Thinks notes not to believe everything your child says. Very true in our case! They don’t mean any harm but they can be a little generous with the truth. My advice would be if in doubt speak to the teacher. They are well used to hearing stories of what kids said at home and can straighten out the record very quickly.
• Never mind the kid and playground politics, it can be seen with the adults too.  Ill admit I was totally oblivious that such politics do exist however I have had first hand experience of it myself.  Natalie from Crummy Mummy also has had similar experience. However in the interest of balance Helena from Babyfoote assures us that this doesn’t exist in every school and that real friendships can be made at the school gate.

Teachers perspective

We have heard some view points for new parents. Now lets here from the other side. My sister is a teacher and kindly offered some insights:

• Keep communication with the teacher/ school open don’t be afraid to seek clarification if your child says something or if you have a concern. Teachers are more than happy to ally any fears you might have.
• Always check the school bag/ lunch box for notes. Kids have a habit of forgetting!
• We are human too if the uniform isn’t perfectly pressed stained etc it doesn’t matter these things happen, none of us are perfect.
• Use the resources that are available. If extra assistance is needed there are lots of resources available to assist and don’t be afraid to ask or utilise additional resources such as for example dyslexia support for teachers and parents.
• Encourage your child all the way, praise the good, listen to the stories and show interest in their homework. Regardless of what you may have thought of school or homework yourself do try not to project that view on to your child.

If you have any other words of wisdom please do share them with us.

Note: This is a collaborative post however I retain full editorial control