Here is some practical advice from an educator to assist you in helping your child make the leap from the Foundation to Intersen Phase.
It’s the start of another school year and if your child is moving from the Foundation to Intersen Phase, they will face some significant changes and adjustments: new teachers, new expectations, new routines and new challenges. Some children may find this transition exciting, while others may feel anxious, overwhelmed or resistant.
Desiree Hugo, academic head of ADvTECH Schools Division, says parents have a vital role preparing their children for the step up from Grade 3 to Grade 4 to ensure they start the year on a strong footing, ready to perform to the best of their ability.
“Parents should talk to their children about how their school days will differ when they move to Grade 4. In Grade 4, they need to start taking greater ownership and responsibility for their learning, workload, homework and assessments will increase and they will need to develop independence,” she says.
Create a consistent routine
Children function at their best when there is a structure and routine. Establish a regular routine for your child’s daily activities – waking up, getting ready, breakfast, departing for school, doing homework, playtime, dinner and bedtime. Make sure your child knows what to do and when to do it. Try to stick to the same schedule on most school days and avoid deviations where possible. This way, the rhythm of their daily routine becomes second nature.
Support your child’s learning
In the Intersen Phase, your child will likely face a wider range of subjects, which may be challenging. Help them learn and master the content by providing guidance, encouragement and feedback. For example, review the lesson notes with your child, help them with their homework, quiz them on the key concepts, praise their efforts and achievements and discuss their mistakes. You can also provide extra resources, such as books, websites, videos or games, to supplement their learning and spark their interest. Most importantly, avoid doing the work for your child or putting too much pressure on them. Let your child work at their own pace and level, and respect their learning style and preferences.
Encourage their social and emotional development
This phase is as much about academic learning as personal growth. Your child may face various social and emotional issues, such as making friends, dealing with peer pressure, coping with stress, managing emotions, developing self-esteem and expressing opinions. Being a good role model, listening to their feelings and concerns, validating their emotions, offering advice and support, teaching them coping strategies and encouraging them to join extracurricular activities will help them develop and thrive. Help them build positive relationships with teachers and classmates by communicating regularly, participating in school events and resolving conflict independently and peacefully.
Find more tips on preparing for the new school year.
Celebrate your child’s progress and achievements
The transition from the Foundation to Intersen Phase is a big milestone for your child, and they deserve recognition and appreciation for their hard work and accomplishments. Celebrate their progress and achievements and avoid comparison with others. In addition, do not focus solely on academic results; acknowledge the effort, mastery and improvements your child has made.
“Intersen is an exciting and illuminating time for children They continue to build their own identity, learn new skills and encounter new challenges. It is an important time to help them cultivate a love of learning and a growth mindset. Parental and teacher support during this time is crucial to ensure continued connection while also learning to strike a balance between supporting the child and giving them the room to discover their strengths and abilities,” Hugo adds.
