Preparing well for a school change

In short: A school change may become necessary due to moving, changing school type or personal reasons and means a bigger adjustment for children. Good preparation clearly eases the transition.

In more detail: The younger the child and the more transparent the communication, the easier adaptation usually is.

In detail

• Timely registration: Clarify documents and deadlines of the new school early.
• Transfer of records: Request school reports and important documents from the old school.
• Advance visit: A getting-to-know-you appointment at the new school reduces uncertainty.
• Social integration: Contacts with new classmates can form even before the first school day.
• Comparing learning content: Differences in the curriculum may mean some brief catching up.
• Emotional support: Acknowledge both saying goodbye to the old school and anticipation of what’s new.
• Follow-up: Pay particular attention to signs of being overwhelmed in the first few weeks (schulangst-und-schulverweigerung).