Transitioning to high school: A checklist for parents Before your child starts high school: Go to orientation events Practice waking up early Buy the righ tuniform and bag Make sure they ahve stationary and books Spend tie talking about the new school Be positive about the transition yourself Build excitement for new opportunities - all those extra-curricular activities! Encourage them to make friends outside of their existing group Practice the trip to school together - apply for a travel pass if needed Encourage them to sign up to peer support or buddy programs Discuss emergency and safety issues Arrange a chat with an older child who's already been through it Once your child starts high school: Check in regularly to see how they're going Establish a proactive relationship with their year advisor Explore time management and study techniques Make sure they're getting enough sleep Connect with another parent from the year Make sure they have multiple copies of their timetable at school and at home