One of the most difficult adjustments for a child is to begin a new school.  They leave the safety and security of what they know, to be immersed in a new school full of strange people.  No one likes to be the “new kid”, so these transitions can often cause behavioral problems and other issues with the child.

However, if your child doesn’t speak the language that’s native to the new school, the transition becomes even more difficult.  Children can be cruel and you might find that your child is teased for their accent or use of words in the English language.  Children may even have difficulties with their teachers if they aren’t properly trained in accommodating students who are new to the English language.

One of the best things you can do to help your child is to be enthusiastic about the new experience.  Children often pick up their parent’s emotions, so if you’re about the transition, chances are they’ll be excited too.

Take the time to visit the school and meet your child’s teacher.  This will make the transition a little easier for your child by giving him or her the chance to visit the new school surroundings and meet the person in charge of the class before school actually begins.  Ask the teacher how they help children that have limited English skills.  Most schools will have programs available to help your child learn English quickly and correctly.

If you aren’t fluent in English, consider learning the language with your child.  Not only can this be a great way for you to connect with your child, they’ll understand the importance of learning to communicate in English.  After all, if it’s important to mom or dad, it’ll be important to them as well.

In addition, the transition will be easier if your child can meet some of the other children in his or her school outside of the classroom.  Plan outing to a local park and invite some of the other students and their parents to join you.  This can be a great way for you and your child to meet new friends and practice your English in a fun setting.

There are also many groups that you can join so that your child can meet other children their age.  The more often they interact with English-speaking children, the more comfortable they’ll be in school.  Children have a unique ability to communicate without words, so don’t worry if your child can’t understand what the others are saying.  They’ll pick it up soon enough.

Finally, be sure to let your child know that it’s okay to make mistakes.  Learning English can be difficult and sometimes the mess-ups can be funny.  Let them know people may laugh if they say something in English that isn’t quite right.  Also let them know that people aren’t laughing at your child, but they are laughing because something sounds funny.

Children can do very well when they are introduced to an English-speaking school.  Don’t force your child to speak English at home, but gentle encouragement can really help.  Try watching English speaking television programs or going to an English speaking movie.  Anything you can do to immerse your child in the English language will help them to adjust better at the new school.