Going to boarding school is a major change for your child. The changes are emotional, academic, and social. Your child may feel excited, nervous, or miss home. Academically, there will be new classes and a different learning style they have to adjust to. Socially, changing schools means making new connections and becoming a member of new groups. At DPS Warangal, best boarding school in Warangal, Telangana, we make sure to make this process as simple for both parents and students.
As a parent, you must interact honestly with your child before they go. Since shifting is already a huge change, as parents it is our duty to make it as easy for our kids. Staying in touch and showing your support will help them adjust. Even after they’ve settled in, your continued support and advice would act like a guiding light to them. As parents, you can do the following to take care of your child as they move out.
1. Understand the boarding school environment
Try taking your child to the campus beforehand to show them what boarding school is like. This will make them aware of where they will live, learn, and have fun. At DPS Warangal, a school with a co-ed hostel facility, we make sure to provide the best for your children. Going over the daily schedule and school rules helps them understand what to expect. Doing so will be extremely helpful and make your child feel at ease. Remind them that joining a community and meeting new friends are equally important aspects of boarding school. Familiarize them with teachers, house parents, and counselors that are available when you visit so that they don’t feel overwhelmed with new faces on day 1. Being aware of all of this in advance will greatly reduce anxiety!
2. Talk openly and honestly about the transition
Asking your children if they are anxious, eager, or perhaps a little bit of both will help you start a genuine conversation about boarding school. Talk about the exciting aspects, like meeting new people and trying new things. But also be honest about the changes that are coming, like moving out. As parents, we have to give them the assurance that you will always be there for them, even if you are far away. Encourage them and tell them that it’s acceptable to feel different emotions. You and your child must journey through these emotions together since it’s new for the both of you.
3. Encourage independence before they leave
Assign your child small household chores such as cleaning the room, laundry, or helping in the kitchen to finish on his/her own. To give kids a sense of control, let them make some simple daily decisions. As parents, you should motivate your child to schedule their own activities or schoolwork. This will boost confidence when they are away and teach them how to take care of themselves. It all comes down to these little actions which make kids more independent.
4. Pack smart for your child
Packing essentials is a lot more complicated for a child going away from home. As a parent, the question you’re faced with is what’s defined as essential? While packing toiletries, clothes, shoes, etc is a given, small details can be helpful. A toothbrush that he/she really likes helps in creating a sense of familiarity. Other items could include toys, or small knickknacks. But before you try to fit their room into suitcases, always consult with the hostel itself. Some boarding schools are cautious about bringing too much memorabilia that also makes a child homesick more than providing comfort. Balance is key here.And here’s a tip if you haven’t already thought of it: label everything to prevent confusion! This will make unpacking a lot simpler for your child.
5. Establish a communication plan early
Identify what works best for your child and how you can stay in touch. Discuss with them in advance about how often you plan to connect. Here, too –many schools have rules and defined days that you might require to follow (what is DPS’s policy?) Decide on a few consistent times each week for phone calls or video sessions. Also, let them know that it’s alright for them to contact you at any time. You may want to occasionally mix it up with emails or even letters.
- Encourage social and extracurricular involvement
It is your responsibility as parents to encourage your child to participate and form friendships at boarding school. Chat with them about all of the fun groups and events the school has to offer. Such as drama, music, sports, or something which is completely new. Tell them that being involved in activities is an excellent way to meet people who share their interests. Help them view it as an enjoyable opportunity to discover new skills. Since it all comes down to diving right in and trying new things. The DPS Warangal curriculum encourages students to participate in extracurriculars wholeheartedly. It’s worth mentioning that extrovertedness can be learned and if they see you being an extrovert at home, they’re much more likely to be comfortable in a new environment, too.
7. Create a routine for visits and holidays
Plan your vacations and visits with your child. This could involve deciding on a rough visiting plan, such as once a term or half-term to give your child something to look forward to. Keep an eye out for events you can attend on the school calendar. Many schools may also have limited days in the calendar year, when you can meet with your child, others might be more flexible. This is day-visits, or weekend visits, separate from holidays when your child expects to spend time at home. Maintaining a routine is helpful, but as parents, you should be flexible whenever needed. This will build regular opportunities to connect and beautiful moments to look forward to.
It comes down to a few basics when it comes to helping your child at boarding school. Continue discussing things honestly and openly. As parents encourage them to be independent while maintaining regular interactions. Be a good listener when they share, and never forget to express your love and support with words and deeds. At DPS Warangal, the residential school in India, we believe It is our collective duty to be patient while they get used to this new journey. Acknowledge what they’ve achieved, no matter how tiny. By doing these things, you will not only build a strong bond but also help them thrive!