The First 2 Weeks of Term: What Parents Should Really Pay Attention To

The start of a new term in an independent school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking—for children and parents. After months of holiday routines, late nights, and relaxed schedules, the sudden return to early mornings, timetables, and homework can be a big adjustment. As an independent school consultant, I often see parents focus too much on academic performance in these first days, when in reality, the social, emotional, and logistical foundations are far more important.

The first two weeks of term are a critical period—how your child navigates them can set the tone for the rest of the term, and even the year. Here’s what you really need to pay attention to, and why it matters.

1. Emotional Wellbeing: Settling In Matters Most

The very first priority should be your child’s emotional adjustment. Independent schools often have new teachers, new classmates, and sometimes a bigger environment than children are used to. While some children thrive immediately, others may feel nervous or overwhelmed.

Signs of stress to watch for include:

• Reluctance to get out of bed or go to school in the mornings

• Irritability, tearfulness, or withdrawal

• Complaints about teachers or classmates

• Physical symptoms such as stomachaches or headaches

Why it matters: Emotional wellbeing directly affects learning. A child who is anxious or stressed is less likely to focus in class or retain information. Supporting your child emotionally in these first weeks creates a stable foundation for academic and social success.

Practical tips for parents:

• Keep conversations open and non-judgmental: “How was your day?” is fine, but try also asking “What was one good thing today?”

• Avoid heavy problem-solving at first; simply listening and acknowledging their feelings is often enough

• Reassure your child that adjustment takes time—normalising small worries prevents them from escalating

Example: I once worked with a 10-year-old who refused to go to school during the first week. After gently listening, we discovered she was worried about making friends in her new class. By arranging a casual playdate with one peer from her year, she quickly became comfortable and was attending happily by the second week.

2. Social Integration: Friendships Come First

Independent schools are more than academic institutions—they are communities. How your child begins to navigate friendships, clubs, and group activities in these first weeks can define their confidence and happiness.

What to observe:

• Who they gravitate toward during break and lunchtime

• How they handle inclusion or exclusion in group activities

• Their participation in clubs, teams, or school events

Why it matters: Children who feel socially integrated are more likely to engage positively with their learning, develop leadership skills, and maintain emotional stability. Social struggles can also manifest as academic reluctance, so early attention is key.

Tips for parents:

• Encourage but don’t force friendships; small steps work better than pressure

• Look for opportunities for your child to join clubs or activities they genuinely enjoy

• Support social skills gently at home, such as how to introduce themselves or navigate sharing

Example: A Year 7 student initially sat alone during lunch. After a parent-teacher conversation, we identified a shared interest in chess. By joining the chess club, she quickly made friends, boosting her confidence across other areas of school life.

3. Academic Routine: Observing, Not Pressuring

It’s natural for parents to worry about homework and academic progress. However, the first two weeks are more about observation than intervention.

Focus areas:

• Understanding your child’s timetable and workload

• Observing their concentration patterns and energy levels

• Identifying subjects where they feel confident or need support

Why it matters: Jumping straight into strict schedules or extra tutoring can backfire if your child hasn’t settled emotionally or socially. Early observation allows you to create a realistic, supportive plan.

Tips for parents:

• Take notes on what subjects or tasks your child enjoys or finds difficult

• Encourage short, consistent study periods rather than marathon sessions

• Celebrate small achievements to build momentum and confidence

Example: One parent reported their child struggling with maths the first week. Instead of immediate extra tuition, we observed that the child was tired after early morning commutes. Adjusting their study time to the afternoon, when energy was higher, improved focus and results without stress.

4. Communication With Teachers: Early Collaboration Pays Off

Teachers are observing your child closely in these first weeks. Establishing a positive relationship early ensures your child receives the right support if needed.

Effective strategies:

• Attend any introductory meetings or parent evenings

• Share brief insights about your child’s learning style or needs

• Keep communication concise, respectful, and solution-focused

Why it matters: Teachers are often balancing many students. Providing clear, helpful information allows them to support your child effectively. Early collaboration also prevents minor issues from escalating.

Example: One parent emailed the form tutor to explain their child’s slight hearing difficulty. With this early communication, the teacher made small seating adjustments in class, which prevented potential learning gaps.

5. Habits and Logistics: Small Details, Big Impact

Seemingly minor practicalities can make a huge difference in these first weeks.

Key areas to manage:

• School uniforms and supplies are ready

• Your child knows their timetable, lunch routines, and after-school activities

• Sleep schedules are aligned with early mornings

Why it matters: Practical disorganisation can increase stress, reduce focus, and create unnecessary conflict. A smooth daily routine helps children feel secure and confident.

Tips for parents:

• Prepare school bags and uniforms the night before

• Set a consistent bedtime and morning routine early

• Create a visual timetable if your child finds organisation challenging

6. Watch, Listen, and Adjust

No two children experience the start of term in the same way. Some settle instantly, others need more time. Pay attention to:

• Changes in mood, appetite, or energy

• Feedback from teachers

• Patterns in social interactions

Persistent struggles—emotional, social, or academic—should not be ignored. Independent schools have support systems, including form tutors, school counsellors, and academic mentors. Early intervention can prevent small challenges from becoming ongoing issues.

Bottom Line

The first two weeks of term are about more than homework, tests, or grades—they are the foundation for your child’s term. Parents who focus on emotional wellbeing, social integration, observing academic rhythms, building early teacher relationships, and managing practical routines set their children up for success.

If you notice difficulties, early support is crucial. As an independent school consultant, I help parents navigate these early weeks, ensuring their child feels confident, settled, and ready to thrive academically and socially.