Trinity Talks

Advice from an expert on how to discuss changing schools with your child.

As a Licensed Master Social Worker, School Counselor, and parent of three, I am asked daily by other parents for advice on handling difficult subject matters with their children. One issue that can be particularly tricky for parents this time of year is how to discuss changing schools with their child. No matter the reason, moving to a new environment brings up many emotions for everyone. Here are a few things parents should keep in mind during this process.

The development that occurs in a young child’s mind is not only remarkable, but also overwhelmingly crucial for his or her growth. Research shows that children develop 85% of their core brain structure by the time they are five years old. This includes learning how to manage their emotions and behaviors, as well as their ability to focus and sustain their attention. While some children will naturally learn how to self-regulate, for most, this is a skill they must be taught, just as reading and writing.

The traditional private school Open House event provides an excellent opportunity for prospective students and families to visit campus, observe facilities, speak with school personnel, and ask the all-important question of, “Can we see ourselves and/or are child(ren) being successful and happy here?”

So much of parenthood, especially in the early years, is an ongoing effort to ensure you are making the best possible choices for your child. And, with the prevalence of options and information, it’s hard to discern what those choices are. Chief among them—whether to enroll your child in a preschool and/or early childhood program.

Charter and private schools are very different, at virtually all levels—including at the preschool level. 

We all know it is important for children to be kind in the classroom, at home, and in life. Learning this skill is a crucial part in the development of each child, however it can be difficult to know the best approach for teaching kindness and empathy to our children. 

When it comes to ensuring academic success for your child, the sooner his or her skills and tools for learning are developed, the better. Preschool offers your child the opportunity to get a head start in developing these skills.

At Trinity Episcopal School, we strive to help students grow into good people and members of the community at large. This is why community service is a critical component of each of our students’ education.

As School Chaplain Reverend Bobby Hadzor stated in a recent schoolwide letter: “We steep ourselves in what it means to be a community and not individuals.”

In the greater New Orleans area, there are countless opportunities to provide community service to others. With one of the nation’s highest official poverty rates among the 50 largest metro areas, 19.7% of residents live in poverty, so the need for community service outreach is of the utmost importance.

Choosing the right school for your child to attend can be a challenge. Parents often want to find a school that aligns with their values, but also allows children to develop their own sense of identity and beliefs.