San José, Costa Rica. March, 2015.

Increase of behavior tantrums, cries easily, difficulties relating with other children and even the symptomatic manifestation on the physiological level of stress and anxiety, such as stomach-ache or feverish conditions without apparent cause and headache, are symptoms of anxiety when changing schools.

According to Gabriela Espinoza Cruz, clinical psychologist of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital, “it is important that the child be informed beforehand of the decision of changing schools, and explain the new school positively, as well as preparing him/her for the possibility of getting to know other classmates.”

How much the child will be affected will depend on the process carried out, that is, if he/she is offered information about what is going to happen, he/she is taken in advance to see the new school, should it be another institution, or he/she is taken to the new classroom, this will favor the attitude and reaction of the child.

Lying to him/her is not recommended. Instead, offer true information but at his/her level. Do not change schools without prior notice, since in the end it is the child who must adapt. Also, it is important to be able to listen the child´s perspective of the school in order to take it into account. As parents, one must try to not make them fell anxious or fearful, but show them your joy and interest in these changes.

The child should feel accompanied in the process, that is, if the child says he/she feels bad, you should listen and point out that that is very normal. One should not scold him/her or ask him/her to feel “happy”, since he/she also requires some time,” explained Espinoza.

If the child begins to share his/her experiences and you observe him/her motivated in being able to do his/her school homework and assignments, as well as that he/she comments on his/her new friends, and you observe him/her behaving normally, without any significant change, this is a good sign that the child was able to adapt correctly.

Prevent that your child is affected by school with the following recommendations:

1. There must a quiet space at home accompanied with positive expressions about the process.
2. Establish communication with the teacher so that he/she can offer information about the adaptation process.
3. One can orient the child teaching him/her to apply some relaxation techniques with deep breathing and accompanied with positive thoughts and ideas.

For further information or for requesting medical attention, please call the number 2522-1000, or write to the email citas@clinicabiblica.com or contact us via chat at the website: www.clinicabiblica.com.