Preparation before Sending your Child to the Boarding School

A few days ago we all were at the airport. Every one of our family members who were present there had tears in their eyes. The reason was that my little niece Dustu was going to study in a good school in South India. Dustu was a ten year old little girl, who is the naughtiest member in our family. As she is the youngest member in our house, so everyone has a soft corner for her. The day when she went for studies in South India, was a day mingled with joy and sorrow for everyone. Even Dustu also took many days to accept the truth that she had to leave for her studies and to stay alone in a boarding school, far away from home. It’s not the case with Dustu only, but with every other kid who has to stay in boarding schools, away from their home. Homesickness is a common problem with children. Homesickness is a natural part of the adjustment process. The insecurity of leaving memorable things and people behind and trying to acclimatize to new people and circumstances can cause a preoccupation with home and a grieving for the loss of what was familiar and secure. Homesick children can feel depressed, anxious, and even physically ill. Almost all children, adolescents, and adults experience some amount of homesickness when they are at a distance from familiar people and environments. Pediatricians and other health care experts are in a unique position to assist families in understanding the etiology, prevention, and treatment of homesickness. In the case of planned separations, such as summer camp, techniques are provided that may aid in prevention. Leaving home is a universal developmental milestone. Homesickness is defined as distress and functional impairment caused by an actual or anticipated separation from home and attachment objects such as parents. As a parent, the best thing to be done to help the child deal with homesickness is to first remember that this is a natural part of the adjustment process. It also helps to understand that homesickness is the process through which children learn that they have not "lost" their home, but that they have in fact "gained" a whole new home and community. It is very essential for parents to listen to their child’s voices. No matter how parents feel about the school or how much their own opinions may differ, it is crucial that their child knows that they hear and appreciate the child’s concerns. Give the child a sense of security. By regularly interacting with the children who are in boarding, parents can help them cope up with the homesickness. Encourage the child to get involved. Ask about the child's extracurricular activities, clubs and sports, and actively encourage them to take part. Help your child create a daily or weekly schedule. Creating a daily plan will give the child a sense of security and give the confidence to get involved in new surroundings. Stay in touch with the child's advisors and teachers. The school’s provide a valuable insight into the child's progress, and can support them in their efforts to help the child make a successful transition.