1. Easing the Transition to NES
Welcome to NES
Parent Support for transition
Transition Activities moving forward
Questions/Answers

2. Easing Transition Tips Transition Activities Parent Experience
Agenda –
Introduction
(Mrs. Fox and Mr. King)
Easing Transition Tips
Transition Activities
(Mrs. Cook and Mrs. Jachimski)
Parent Experience
Questions/Answers
(All)
Conclusion

3. Think of a time when you started something new.
Easing the Transition
Think of a time when you started something new.
How did you feel?
What helped?

4. Important Information for Parents:
 Expect the transition to be ultimately successful.
Remain calm and positive.
Model optimism and confidence.
Talk about all the things the new school has to offer.
Encourage your child to discuss the transition by asking questions such as, “What have you been thinking about your new school?”
Make a list of your child’s questions and concerns. Together try to find the answers to the questions.
Reassure your child that it is natural to feel apprehensive.
Research and review school information.
Reinforce resiliency and the ability to cope with change.
Plan to attend important events.
Get involved. Volunteer. Join the PTO.

5. Visit the school with your child.
Get to know teachers and other school professionals.
Have open conversations with school professionals and administration about your child’s strengths and needs. Write a letter to assist with classroom placement.
Look for ways for your child to meet kids from the new school but do not overwhelm.
Give your child time to adjust.
Remind your child often that making new friends does not mean replacing old friends.
Be available after school starts. Understand that your child may need extra time, attention and support.
Help your child explore ways to problem-solve and cope with concerns.
Encourage your child to try new things at school.
Continue to foster organizational skills and assist your child in becoming resilient, responsible and independent. Stay interested and provide rules and structure.
After an adjustment period of time (around conferences), if your child is reluctant to go to school or seems truly unhappy, seek help from school professionals.

6. Important Information for Parents of Current NES Students:
Expect the transition to be ultimately successful.
Remain calm and positive.
Model optimism and confidence.
Remind students to be mindful and not pass judgement before getting to know new students. Lots of opportunities to make new friends.
Encourage your child to discuss the transition by asking questions such as, “How are things going with the new changes?”
Make a list of your child’s questions and concerns. Together try to find the answers to the questions.
Reassure your child that it is natural to feel apprehensive. There will be lots of changes but the foundation remains strong.
Reinforce resiliency and the ability to cope with change.
Plan to attend important events.

7. Resources:
National Association of School Psychologists –
School Family –
Kelly Bear Counseling Website –

8. Easing the Transition
Upcoming Activities

9. Upcoming Activities March
March 13 – Parent/Counselor Forum (You are here!)
March - Pen Pal Letters will Begin
April
April 25 - Open House at NES
Introductions, tour and refreshments
April 27 - Principal/Counselor Visits to WES 4TH Grade Students
May
May 11 – NES 5th Grade Teachers Visit WES 4th Grade Students
May 20 – NES Spring Fling
May 22 – Cooperative Games NES
June
June 7 – Move Up NES
WES and NES 4th graders will meet the teachers and students in the upcoming grade at NES
August
New Student Orientation / Meet and Greet at NES
Welcome Back picnic at NES

10. Easing the Transition
Questions and Answers