Tips for Starting the School Year in the UAE

Starting a new school year can be exciting and challenging. Whether your child is entering primary school, transitioning to secondary school, or moving to a new school, these tips will help you set them up for success.

Primary School Tips

1. Use the School Portal:
   • Become familiar with the school’s portal and platforms used for communication and assignments, such as Microsoft Teams and Seesaw. Staying updated helps you track your child’s progress and school activities (Hoover-Dempsey et al., 2005).
2. Read School Communications:
   • Regularly check emails, newsletters, and notices. Staying informed about events and updates ensures you and your child are always prepared (Epstein, 2001).
3. Be Active on WhatsApp Groups (with Caution):
   • Join parent WhatsApp groups for updates on school events and activities. Verify information through official school communications to avoid misinformation.
4. Download the Parent Communication App:
   • Many schools have dedicated apps for parent communication, such as Microsoft Teams and Seesaw. Regularly check these apps for important updates and notices.
5. Encourage Reading:
   • Integrate reading into your daily routine. Reading with your child or encouraging independent reading enhances literacy skills and fosters a love for learning (Mol et al., 2008).

Secondary School Tips

1. Use the School Portal:
   • Regularly check the school’s portal for assignments, grades, and important announcements. Platforms like Microsoft Teams and ManageBac for IB schools help monitor academic progress and involvement (Hoover-Dempsey et al., 2005).
2. Read School Communications:
   • Keep up with emails and notifications from the school to ensure you don’t miss any crucial information (Epstein, 2001).
3. Foster Independence:
   • Encourage your child to set goals, manage their time, and organize schoolwork independently. This builds responsibility and prepares them for future challenges (Zimmerman, 2002).
4. Encourage Extracurricular Activities:
   • Support your child in joining sports, arts, or clubs. Participation in extracurricular activities helps develop new skills, build friendships, and enhance the school experience (Fredricks & Eccles, 2006).

Starting at a New School

1. Leverage Orientation Programs:
   • Attend any orientation or induction programs offered by the school. These sessions can provide crucial insights into the school’s culture, expectations, and support systems (Hughes et al., 2008).
2. Use a School Map and Timetable:
   • Obtain a map of the school and your child’s timetable. Go over them together to help your child become familiar with their new environment and schedule, reducing first-day anxiety (Gifford-Smith et al., 2005).
3. Connect with Teachers Early:
   • Reach out to your child’s teachers early in the year to establish a line of communication. Understanding their expectations and showing your involvement can significantly support your child’s transition (Minke & Anderson, 2003).
4. Utilize School Resources:
   • Make use of any available school resources such as counseling services, academic support, or extracurricular activity coordinators. These resources can provide additional support for your child’s adjustment to a new school (Adelman & Taylor, 2006).
5. Involve Your Child in School Planning:
   • Involve your child in planning their school year. Discuss their goals, subjects, and interests to make them feel more in control and motivated. This proactive involvement can help them adapt better and take ownership of their education (Eccles & Wigfield, 2002).

Returning to the Same School

1. Reflect on Social and Emotional Growth:
   • Instead of solely focusing on academic performance, have conversations with your child about their social and emotional experiences from the previous year. Discuss their friendships, challenges, and emotional well-being to help them develop a more holistic approach to their school life (Elias et al., 1997).
2. Stay Updated:
   • Be aware of any changes in school policies, schedules, or curriculum to support your child effectively (Hoover-Dempsey et al., 2005).
3. Be Aware of After-School Activity Sign-Ups:
   • Know when sign-ups for after-school activities start and encourage your child to participate. Extracurricular activities are crucial for social and academic development (Fredricks & Eccles, 2006).

Conclusion

Starting the school year on a positive note involves preparation, engagement, and ongoing support. By attending school events, using the school portal, staying informed, and fostering a supportive home environment, parents can help their children succeed academically and emotionally. These strategies will set them up for a successful and enjoyable school year in the UAE.