How to support your teens with School Transitions

Whether moving up to secondary school, into sixth form or off to college, school transitions can be a difficult period for teenagers and their families, often bringing a mixture of excitement and anxiety. In this week’s session, we talked to our resident Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarah-Jane Knight, about the common challenges teens face and what practical strategies parents and carers can put into practice to support them over the summer break and into the new school year. 

Common challenges during school transitions 

Sarah-Jane explained that teens may experience stress due to the anticipation of a new environment, making new friends, navigating unfamiliar spaces, and meeting new teachers. The fear of getting lost or going to the wrong classes is particularly prevalent among those transitioning to secondary school. Similarly, moving to college or sixth form can be daunting due to the larger and unfamiliar setting.

Supporting teens during the Summer Holidays 

Parents can play a crucial role in easing their teens’ anxiety and helping them prepare for the new school year. 

Maintain Social Contacts: Encourage teens to keep in touch with friends over the summer, even if they aren’t going to the same school. This provides a sense of security and continuity.

Facilitate New Social Interactions: Support teens in planning meet-ups or catching up online with new friends they might have met during inductions so there’s some familiar faces during the first day.

Structure and Routine: Help teens maintain a daily routine and keep busy over the holidays to prevent aimless days and excessive rumination about their worries. Gradually adjust their sleep schedule to match the school routine. 

Help them feel ready: Ensure they have all necessary school supplies, are checking for any important communications from the new school or college and encouraging them to familiarise themselves with their new commute are all ways to alleviate some of the worries.

Dealing with Social Anxiety 

Sarah-Jane talked through some key strategies for helping teens deal with the social anxiety that can come with a new environment. 

Normalise Concerns: Acknowledge that it is normal to feel anxious about new environments and social situations.

Encourage Open Communication: Discuss their concerns and help them rationalise any negative interpretations of social interactions.

Provide Reassurance: Remind them that they have friends and support, even if they are entering a new setting.

Addressing Specific Concerns

For teens with additional needs, such as those with ADHD, ensuring that the new school is aware of their requirements and has appropriate strategies in place is essential. Regular check-ins with the school can help monitor their progress and address any issues early on.

Transitions are inherently stressful, but maintaining a steady and supportive presence as a parent can make a significant difference. Maintaining open communication, providing reassurance, and preparing practically can help reduce their anxiety, build their resilience and navigate these changes with greater confidence.