LOST IN TRANSITION
FROM PRIMARY TO SECONDARY SCHOOL
Primary school and secondary school have more similarities than differences in terms of the structure and form of education. The bigger impact lies in a child’s emotional development. If not managed carefully, some students will feel lost. This article shares some useful tips for parents to take note of.
Emotional changes
As teens hit puberty in secondary school, they will experience emotional changes and develop changes in certain areas. Boys may develop feelings for girls and vice versa. While this is part and parcel of growing up and nothing to lose sleep over, the distraction may affect studies for some. Emotional changes may be hard to deal with at first but with more experience, the kids will mature and adapt.
Boys will wear long pants
In terms of changes to the uniform, guys are required to wear long pants at the start of secondary three. This may seem burdensome at first given the humid weather but everyone gets used to it.
School ends later
In upper secondary schools, classes tend to end later compared to lower secondary and primary school. As the student nears national exams, they will have to attend more remedial and extra lessons till about 5-6pm.
Behavioural consequences
Teen may see some antisocial or subversive behaviour as cool and thrilling. They may want to try things like smoking, drinking and fighting. It is especially crucial for parents to stay close their kids. Talk to them. Listen without judgement. Guide them through. Help them to control their emotions to avoid getting onto the wrong side of the law. Parents can also talk to the kids’ teachers and school counsellors for help.
The time spent in secondary school could be the best years of a child’s life. Help them cherish it and look forward to the brand new experience.