Q&A for How to Handle Being the New Kid at School

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How do you adjust to a new school?

Klare Heston, LCSW
Licensed Social Worker
Klare Heston is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in Cleveland, Ohio. With experience in academic counseling and clinical supervision, Klare received her Master of Social Work from the Virginia Commonwealth University in 1983. She also holds a 2-Year Post-Graduate Certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, as well as certification in Family Therapy, Supervision, Mediation, and Trauma Recovery and Treatment (EMDR).

Klare Heston, LCSW

Licensed Social Worker

Expert Answer

You can take it one day at a time. Expect that it will take a while; don't judge it by your first day. Pay attention to what activities go on at the school and how kids dress. Try saying something positive about your new environment instead of complaining about how it isn't as nice as your old school.

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Question

How can I help new kids at school?

Klare Heston, LCSW
Licensed Social Worker
Klare Heston is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in Cleveland, Ohio. With experience in academic counseling and clinical supervision, Klare received her Master of Social Work from the Virginia Commonwealth University in 1983. She also holds a 2-Year Post-Graduate Certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, as well as certification in Family Therapy, Supervision, Mediation, and Trauma Recovery and Treatment (EMDR).

Klare Heston, LCSW

Licensed Social Worker

Expert Answer

You can help by introducing yourself. It is nice to be reached out to when you are new. You can also ask basic questions like, "Do you know where your homeroom is?"

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Question

How do I survive my first day at a new school?

Klare Heston, LCSW
Licensed Social Worker
Klare Heston is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in Cleveland, Ohio. With experience in academic counseling and clinical supervision, Klare received her Master of Social Work from the Virginia Commonwealth University in 1983. She also holds a 2-Year Post-Graduate Certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, as well as certification in Family Therapy, Supervision, Mediation, and Trauma Recovery and Treatment (EMDR).

Klare Heston, LCSW

Licensed Social Worker

Expert Answer

Try to talk to at least one new person. Write in your journal if you keep one. Identify at least one thing you like about your new school. Remind yourself that each passing day will be a little better. Make a positive post on your social media about your new school.

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Question

How do you act in a new school?

Klare Heston, LCSW
Licensed Social Worker
Klare Heston is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker based in Cleveland, Ohio. With experience in academic counseling and clinical supervision, Klare received her Master of Social Work from the Virginia Commonwealth University in 1983. She also holds a 2-Year Post-Graduate Certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, as well as certification in Family Therapy, Supervision, Mediation, and Trauma Recovery and Treatment (EMDR).

Klare Heston, LCSW

Licensed Social Worker

Expert Answer

Try being friendly. Smile and look at people instead of looking at the floor. You can introduce yourself and say you are new.

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Question

I'm so scared. I start school tomorrow and I'm not sure how to approach new friends. I absolutely hate being alone at lunch or in class, it really stresses me out and makes me feel bad, what do I do?

Paul Chernyak, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Chernyak is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago. He graduated from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2011.

Paul Chernyak, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Expert Answer

Try being pro-active and commenting on something you see or asking a question to a person nearby. It will usually lead to a conversation. Make sure to mention that you are new and most people will be glad to invite you to sit with them or show you around.

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Question

I'm in high school. I have social anxiety and I'm really shy. Is it okay if my mom comes with me to the classroom. Wouldn't it look weird or something?

Paul Chernyak, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Chernyak is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago. He graduated from the American School of Professional Psychology in 2011.

Paul Chernyak, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Expert Answer

It would look strange to have your mom show up to class in high school. You are better off seeking treatment for your social anxiety in the long run. There are many self-help books and support groups available if you cannot find professional help. I suggest to bring a book you like on your first day and read it whenever you start feeling discomfort. It will allow you to distract yourself and possibly have a topic of conversation as well.

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