How Psychomotor Therapists Can Help Parents with the Transition Back to School?

by Liliane Kantar - Psychomotor Therapist at Aman Lil Afia Clinic ????? ???? ???????

The end of summer and the beginning of a new school year can be challenging for children and their parents. As a psychomotor therapist, you play a vital role in supporting this transition by helping children develop the physical, emotional, and social skills needed to thrive in a school environment. Here are some professional strategies and recommendations to assist parents in making this transition as smooth as possible.

1. Establishing a Routine:?Children benefit from predictable routines, which provide a sense of security and stability. Encourage parents to gradually adjust bedtime and wake-up times to match the school schedule a few weeks before school starts. Suggest incorporating morning and bedtime routines that include activities like stretching or light exercises to help regulate energy levels.

2. Building Independence:?Independence is crucial for children’s confidence and self-esteem. Advise parents to involve their children in daily tasks that promote self-care skills, such as dressing, packing their school bag, and opening lunch containers. Practicing these skills can help children feel more prepared and capable when they return to school.

3. Social and Emotional Preparation:?Social and emotional readiness is as important as academic preparation. Encourage parents to share positive school memories with their children and engage in conversations about what to expect in the new school year. Suggest organizing playdates or group activities at the park to help children reconnect with friends and build social skills through physical play.

4. Engaging in Learning Activities:?To ease children back into an academic mindset, recommend incorporating fun and educational activities at home. Reading books or watching videos about school can familiarize children with what to expect. Visiting the library together can also foster a love for learning and improve cognitive skills.

5. Encouraging Participation:?Active participation in preparing for school can increase children’s excitement and investment in their education. Suggest that parents let their children choose school supplies, such as their backpack and lunchbox. Playing board games can also help children practice following instructions and taking turns, which are important skills for the classroom.

6. Creating a Positive Home Environment:?A supportive home environment is essential for a successful transition back to school. Encourage parents to eat meals together as a family and discuss the day’s events, fostering open communication and emotional support. Assigning small chores can help children develop a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.

7. Establishing a Routine:?Routine provides structure and predictability. Advise parents to maintain a consistent bedtime routine that includes calming activities like reading or listening to music. Using a countdown calendar can help children visualize how many days are left before school starts, reducing anxiety and building anticipation.

8. Promoting Fun and Creativity:?Creative activities are excellent for developing fine motor skills and emotional expression. Encourage parents to engage in arts and crafts with their children, such as drawing, playing with modelling clay, or doing puzzles. These activities can be both enjoyable and beneficial for psychomotor development.

As a psychomotor therapist, I greatly support parents in helping their children transition back to school. By promoting routines, independence, social and emotional readiness, and creative activities, I can ensure children are well-prepared to face the new school year with confidence and enthusiasm.

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