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

2. Agenda –  Introduction  (Mrs. Fox and Mr. King)  Easing Transition Tips  (Mrs. Cook and Mrs. Jachimski)  Transition Activities  (Mrs. Pastre and Ms. Rinehimer)  Email Questions/Answers  (All)  Conclusion  (Mrs. Fox and Mr. King)

3. 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. Resources:  National Association of School Psychologists – www.nasponline.org www.nasponline.org  School Family – www.schoolfamily.comwww.schoolfamily.com  Kelly Bear Counseling Website – www.kellybear.comwww.kellybear.com

7. Easing the Transition Student Handout

8. Easing the Transition Upcoming Activities

9. February  Open House at NES  Introductions, tour and refreshments March  NES and WES Teacher and Student Collaboration  5 th and 6 th grade teachers will spend time with 4 th and 5 th grade students during the school day April  Parent Forum- TBD  Special Area Teacher and Student Collaboration  Special Area teachers will plan a fun activity with 4 th and 5 th grade students during the school day

10. May  Physical Education Teachers and Student Collaboration  Physical education teachers will plan a fun activity with 4 th and 5 th grade students during the school day June  Move-Up Day  WES and NES 4 th and 5 th 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

11. Easing the Transition Questions and Answers