Boarding schools are the best place a child can grow up in. Most schools admit children from class 5 and through class X. The schools are generally situated in open areas with plenty of natural beauty and low pollution. The serenity of the location lends itself to a healthy mind and body that is very essential for a wholesome education and development of the child. The student needs to learn a few tips and tricks to survive in a boarding school.
How can you make life easier in a boarding school?
Always prepare the child about life in a boarding school. Tell her the obvious merits of living with friends, having sports to excel in, build character and becoming independent. Once the child is enthusiastic about living in a boarding school, the rest becomes easy. The child soon learns to adapt to living away from family and creating a new family for herself.
- Aim to introduce your child to the school campus before admission. Most schools allow a campus tour or even a weekend stay at the boarding to let the child be comfortable.
- Always ask your child to help in packing. Pack plenty of essentials and things like underwear so that the child feels secure. Mark all items with a permanent marker so that your child can not lose stuff easily. This will also help him to organize his things easily.
- The child has to learn to adapt and adjust. The first step is to be friendly with everyone. Living away from home in a boarding school is very different from attending a day school. Encourage the child to make friends and remember that nobody is perfect.
- It is important to maintain hygiene. Nobody wants to share a room with a dirty person this may lead to bad blood and broken friendships.
- The teachers are all important in a residential school as they are around 24*7. It is imperative that you share a warm and cordial relationship with the teachers to be successful in school. After all they are the ones you will go to with your problems in school.
- No school is without its share of bullies. The situation can turn ugly in a boarding school as you live in close quarters with others. Talk to your friends about any bullying incidents you face, or go to a teacher. Teachers are sensitive to bullying and will offer you a reasonable solution.
- Try to sleep well as the days are full of activities and you don’t want to feel tired.
- Use prep time carefully, as academics are very important. There are so many activities happening on the campus that it is easy to get distracted. Create a study schedule and stick to it.
It is important for the child to understand that it is natural to miss parents, especially if it is your first time at a boarding school. The trick is to keep plenty of photographs write letters and emails and keep the parents aware of what is going on in school. Phone calls may be limited as most schools restrict screen time. Holidays are when you can create memories with parents, and school is where you create memories with friends.
About the Author
Aman is a freelance Writer and an Education Consultant. He is also an avid reader and an athlete. Currently he is an associate at SelaQui International Boarding School located in Dehradun, India. When he is not busy with work, loves to cook and spend time on gardening.
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