Getting a Child Ready for Year 6

Being a Year 6 teacher for many years, I have seen many students who have been successful in the Year, and some who have been a bit less successful. Here are some tips for success in the Year. Much of this will also be applicable to students in slightly lower or higher year groups.

1. Time management: have some type of planner or calendar. Importantly for EISB, break down larger projects into manageable chunks.

2. Manage belongings. Children really need to get organised at this stage. Develop a routine with packing a school bag, and lunch if applicable. This include homework, other school materials and personal belongings. Have a particular time and space for this. I would recommend doing this in the evenings so that the child is ready to go in the mornings. Don’t do it for them!

3. In terms of social and emotional growth, firstly, self-advocacy needs to be encouraged. They need to speak up for themselves. Secondly, there will be conflicts with friends and other peers. As a parent, listen and offer guidance first rather than speaking straight with other parents and/or teachers. Finally, daily hygiene gets to be important at this age. Establish daily habits and the regular use of deodorant.

4. Academically, reading is key. A regular reading time and place is important. The amount of time can vary according to the child, but consistency is very important here. Additionally, regular mental math is important. practice multiplication and division mentally. Or other key math concepts. A regular place and time to study is vital a well.

5. Keep the lines of communication open. You will thank me for this when your child reaches middle school. Show interest in them, talk to them about their interests and habits, even if it seems inconsequential or irrelevant.

Good luck with all of this!