The first year of school is a milestone, as it is a new beginning for everyone, full of challenges both for children and, of course, parents.

The Wonder Room team wants to contribute to the efforts of parents and children to enjoy the first days at school and embrace all the new experiences that come with joy!

So, we consult with educator, family counselor, MSc mental health counselor, and beloved, Rania Thraskia, who's answering all your burning questions one week after the beginning of the school year.

What are the biggest difficulties that a primary school "beginner" has to face, especially after three lockdowns, in September 2021?

Today's "beginners" in addition to the difficulty of moving from kindergarten to primary school, which is accompanied by many changes, have to deal with the special condition caused by the pandemic. After the restrictive measures of the previous months, suddenly the children are in a big place such as the school community, which constitutes a small society, with a specific organization, with a program and with many new people and activities. So, the child leaves his family and home and comes into essential contact with the world of school and knowledge. For this reason, it is important for parents to discuss with their child about the new environment in which he will find himself and about the changes he will experience in his daily life, with a positive and optimistic attitude and outlook. In order for the parent to support the above role, it is important that he first comes in contact with his fears and worries about his child, so that he does not unconsciously transfer them to him. 

Why is the change from kindergarten to primary school crucial (if any)?

The change from kindergarten to primary school is a basic transition for a child's life and each transition is linked to the upcoming changes. The entry of the child in the Primary school marks his separation from the family environment and his integration into a larger and more organized system, the school community. Of course, the children who go to the first grade are already familiar from kindergarten and the pre-school, who have now joined the compulsory education. However, the main change they will experience is a more organized daily life compared to the previous reality. Now, children begin to systematically acquire new knowledge, to follow specific rules in the classroom (eg. they cannot move freely in the first grade as in kindergarten, as the time of "when we move" and "when we sit "is limited), to undertake homework, to have more responsibilities and generally to follow a more structured program in their daily life. It is of great importance to emphasize the important role of the teacher in this whole process of transition, as the child is in a new environment, with more, mostly unknown, and older children and a new teacher, who with the knowledge, the creative play, group activities, dialogue and above all genuine interest in his / her students has the role of guide and companion at the beginning of school life.

Does it matter if a freshman has "won" or "lost" a year? What should parents and / or guardians of children starting primary school look out for before the age of six?

In Greece, the minimum possible age for first enrollment in primary school is 5 1/2 years. Every child is different and we must take into account the age difference: Some children are five and a half years old, while others that were born in January and beyond are now six and half years old. Research from major universities such as Harvard points out the difficulties of early primary school enrollment, and every parent is able to understand the difference between one year in the development and maturity of a young child. A one-year-old is just walking, while a two-year-old is running away from us. A four-year-old is constantly on the move, with intense imagination, always asking questions, while a five-year-old has the ability to listen and stay focused for longer. In any case, it is good to keep in mind that the smooth adjustment to school and the new routine is extremely important and that the adjustment period may last for some months.

Will you give three practical tips to moms and dads who have "beginners" this year?

Balanced Schedule: It is important to discuss with the child the organization of his space and time, as now his daily life will have more requirements and obligations. After all, good and smart organization facilitates everyday life and creates a routine that offers balance and security to the child. The preparation of his bag from the previous night, the playtime, the time he will wake up, the breakfast, the time he will study, and the bedtime, it would be good to be determined in advance and in collaboration with the child

The appropriate questions: After the child returns from school it is good not to bombard him with a storm of questions. Continuous questions that look like an interrogation will stress him and so it is good to have thought of some questions in advance which will give you useful information about his day and at the same time will not make him worried. Ask the child specific things like, "Who did you play with today?" or "what made you happy?" or "Were you happy all day today?" or "did something fun in the classroom?", questions that can lead to a productive dialogue.

Maintain daily play time: It is important not to reduce a child's playing hours, as we must not forget that the first grader is still a child and must have free time for unstructured play. The child needs time to feel independent, to do things for himself, to get lost in the world of his imagination and to interact through play with his peers.

It is important not to forget that every newcomer is unique and that is why we do not compare it with other children or with ourselves when we were children. We always respect the unique rhythm and way of learning it and let it "show" us which way of learning serves it.

"Mom I do not want to go to school tomorrow!" What can this phrase hide and how can we, as parents, interpret it?

As mentioned above, starting school life is without a doubt a pivotal change for a child. However, it is not uncommon for children to become uncomfortable and refuse to go to school. With proper management of this issue by parents and dialogue, it is often overcome. Sometimes, however, the child's refusal is intense, persistent and creates the feeling that this is indifferent to any school activity. In this case, it is advisable for parents to contact a specialized Center or a Mental Health Specialist as soon as possible, because their child is likely to show symptoms of School Phobia.

What advice would you give to your six-year-old self if you were just starting primary school?

It's okay to play more than you read!

Will you send a wish to this year's firsts of the family of The Wonder Room? 

I wish this year to be internalized in the souls of children as a set of positive and happy memories that will accompany them throughout their lives!