As parents, we want to ensure that this change is as positive and smooth as possible. In this guide, we share key strategies to help your child prepare for this new stage and explain how AIM facilitates this process. 

1. The Importance of a Comprehensive Education 

At AIM, we understand that quality education goes beyond academics and must also nurture emotional, social, and physical development. Our model is based on three fundamental pillars: 

• Academic Excellence: An approach that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and active learning. 
• Sports: We encourage physical activity to develop motor skills and instill values such as discipline and teamwork. 
• Arts: Creative expression through music, theater, and visual arts enriches learning and boosts children's confidence. 

2. How to Facilitate a Smooth School Transition at Home 

The first day of school can be challenging, but with preparation, your child can adapt more easily. Here are some strategies you can implement: 

Separation Anxiety and Emotional Readiness 

• Read books about starting school to help familiarize your child with the experience. 
• Show them the school uniform and encourage them to try it on with enthusiasm. 
• Establish a clear morning routine to provide security. 
• Create a brief and positive goodbye ritual. 

Social Development and Making Friends 

• Encourage your child to play with other children and adults to improve social skills. 
• Teach them to interpret gestures and facial expressions to initiate interactions. 

Language Development and Bilingual Education 

• Continue using the home language to support skill transfer. 
• Set specific times for English, such as bedtime stories. 
• Sing songs and rhymes with key words to make learning fun. 

Academic Expectations and School Readiness 

• Encourage activities like drawing, painting, and playing with playdough to improve fine motor skills. 
• Allow your child to run, jump, and climb to develop essential gross motor skills for learning. 
• Read books together and discuss the pictures to enhance comprehension skills. 

Independence and Self-Care Skills 

• Encourage your child to dress themselves and use the bathroom independently. 
• Teach them to wash their hands, brush their teeth, and tidy up their toys. 

Nutrition and Mealtime Habits 

• Provide a balanced diet and limit sugar and processed foods. 
• Establish family mealtime routines to promote healthy habits. 
• Teach your child to use cutlery and drink from a cup. 

Adjusting to School Schedules 

• Maintain consistent bedtime and morning routines. 
• Gradually phase out the pacifier before school starts. 
• Avoid rushing in the morning to reduce stress. 

Technology Use and Screen Time 

• Limit screen time, especially before bedtime. 
• Choose educational games and activities that involve movement. 

3. How AIM Supports the School Transition 

At AIM, we recognize the importance of a gradual adaptation and offer a structured process to support both children and parents: 

• Open House Events before school starts to meet teachers and explore the facilities. 
• Gradual integration, with small group sessions for the first days of school. 
• Support from our academic and counseling teams, with personalized follow-ups for each family. 
• Regular updates via with photos and videos to reassure parents. 

Learn More in Our Exclusive Webinar 

If you’d like to learn more about how AIM facilitates this transition, we invite you to watch our special webinar: "Nurturing Young Minds: AIM's Approach to Early Childhood Education," presented by our Chipinque Campus Director, Barbara Faria. 

At AIM, we are part of Inspired, a global network of top-tier educational institutions, allowing us to offer world-class learning experiences and unparalleled resources for our students. 

We look forward to welcoming you to our educational community and being part of your child’s growth and development!