At this time of year, we start to talk about the changes coming up for children and staff in the new academic year. Finding out who we will be spending our school days with next year is a big thing – hopefully the new changes will be exciting and seen as a fresh start.
We are working with children this term, preparing them for the change of class, teacher, TA, headteacher and, for the year 6s, schools. We look at the things that will stay the same and the things that will be different next year. When we are having these conversations, there is a vast difference in the attitude of children. Some thrive on the new and unknown,whereas some worry and need a high level of reassurance and support to help them feel calm about the changes ahead.
Thinking even further ahead, we have been talking to some children about their hopes for the future. Many of them do not have ambitions or a goal they are aiming for. I understand that many of them are still so young, but they do not talk about their realistic dreams. Many children tell us they will be influencers, or gamers, and we have some children saying they will be footballers. Undoubtedly, some children will achieve these goals, but many will not. Talking to children about their hopes and aspirations for the future helps develop drive and ambition. I have worked with a girl who wanted to have a café with alpacas roaming in the grounds, and another who wanted to have goats so that children like her could come to stroke them. These dreams drive both girls, and they believe they will achieve their goals which gives them a security and focus looking ahead.
Dreams and hopes for the future are important – there are so many amazing jobs out there. Explore the opportunities together with your children, so they have something to aim for in life.
Reach Behaviour 