After a Disaster: Your Childs Transition to a New School
Release Date: December 1, 2005
Release Number: 1605-119
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Many Hurricane Katrina evacuees and displaced Alabama residents have found permanent housing away from their old neighborhoods and are registering their children in a new school. This important step helps restore family routines and a sense that life is returning to normal. It also helps parents become part of their new community.
Children may have difficulty adjusting to a new school if their former school was damaged during a disaster. The following tips from the Alabama Emergency Management Agency and the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can be helpful to parents and guardians. Many of the suggestions shared are from the National Association of School Psychologists in Bethesda, MD., and the American School Counselor's Association in Alexandria, VA.
IS YOUR CHILD PREPARED?
- Register your child in the school nearest to your home if possible.
- Make sure he/she has adequate school supplies.
- Make sure the child has enough neat and clean clothes for school.
MEET THE PRINCIPAL
- If possible, visit your child's new school alone so you can freely discuss any problems the child may have. If you have scholastic and immunization records bring them with you.
- If your child has special needs, inform the school of any established educational plans. Request additional services or assessments the school may provide if you feel they're needed.
MEET THE NEW TEACHER
- Meet your child's new teacher and tell him/her if your child has shown post-disaster stress. Ask the teacher to let you know of any adjustment problems he/she observes. This will alert you to issues you may have to address either in the home or with a school counselor.
- Some schools invite parents to help the teacher with various tasks. If this interests you, and you have the time, volunteer. Even if you are assigned to a different classroom, your presence at the school should be reassuring to your child, helping ease the transition.
YOUR CHILD'S FIRST DAY
- Take your child to school on the first day so that you can personally introduce the new teacher.
- Make sure provisions are made for his/her lunch and, if possible, pick your child up after school.
- When you get home share an after-school snack; this provides a safe, secure time for hearing about the child's first impressions and first day adventures.
For more guidelines and information, visit the National Association of School Psychologists at www.nasponline.org. and the American School Counselor Association at www.schoolcounselor.org.
Last Modified: Thursday, 01-Dec-2005 13:04:12