Adaptation of first graders: how we support children at the start of their school life

First grade is a life-changing event. For a child, it means a new role, a new environment, and new challenges. For parents, it means excitement, countless questions, and hopes. Will they adapt quickly? Will they make friends? Will they be interested in learning?

We are convinced that getting to know school should start with trust, not demands. With support, not control. That is why My Horizons transforms a child’s first steps in school into a gentle and attentive immersion into the world of knowledge — into an environment where they are met with warmth, support, and understanding.

Psychological support and gentle adaptation

Does first grade have to be stressful? At our school, we believe otherwise: the start of school life can be calm, joyful, and inspiring. It is a time of new discoveries, friendships, and gradual maturation. That is why we pay special attention to the adaptation of first graders — gradually, taking into account the uniqueness of each child.

Our teachers work closely with a psychologist. From the very first days of school, we observe the child’s mood, reactions, and emotional stability. Through play-based methods, fairy tale therapy, and sensory practices, we help the child make a smooth transition to the new environment. We believe that school adaptation should take place in a safe atmosphere where the child is supported rather than evaluated.

Getting acquainted with the school before September 1

Adapting to school does not begin with the first bell, but long before it. The sooner a child becomes familiar with the new environment, the less anxiety and more confidence they will have on their first days of school. That is why we organize a series of meetings for future first graders in the summer: school tours, getting to know the class, the teacher, and even future classmates. Children have the opportunity to see where they will study, hold books in their hands, and sit at a desk. This allows them to relieve tension even before the start of the school year.

We also plan the start of the school year as carefully as possible. In September, we do not require immediate adaptation to the school rhythm. The first weeks are spent following an adaptive schedule: lessons are shorter, with longer breaks between them, lots of creative activities, physical activities, and group games.

We do not teach “by the bell.” We introduce the child to the rhythm of school gradually, leaving time for play, communication, and rest. This allows them to get used to their new role — not just as a child, but as a schoolchild. In this way, school is perceived not as a system of rules, but as a second home — a place where they are welcome.

Communication with parents as part of the process

The successful adaptation of a first grader is impossible without the participation of parents. A child does not come to school alone — their family also enters this new environment with them. That is why, from the very beginning, we build an open dialogue between the school and parents — a dialogue in which there is room not only for information, but also for support, empathy, and joint decisions.

Even before the start of the school year, we invite parents to meetings where the teacher gets to know each family. We discuss expectations, concerns, the child’s habits, and questions that are troubling. This informal communication helps us see the child more deeply — in their context, in relation to their home, family, and parenting style.

This contact does not stop after September 1. We are in regular contact through individual conversations, parent meetings, and daily communication. If parents are worried or unsure about their actions, we do not leave them alone: we listen carefully, offer solutions, and walk this path together.

All of this is part of a single process, at the center of which is the child. Our goal is to create a space where children are not afraid to be themselves, where they are heard and accepted. And parents are not observers, but full participants in this journey. Because first grade is not a race for grades. It is the beginning of a long journey that must start with trust, confidence, and joy. And we do everything we can to make sure that this start is just that.