How can parents help when their child is studying at a Thailand international school for the first time?

Enrolling your child in a Thailand international school is a significant step for both the child and the parent. International schools not only offer different curricula than traditional schools, but also offer a culturally diverse environment that can be new and challenging for children who have never experienced it before.
Therefore, parents can help their children adjust more easily and grow confidently in their new environment with the following 4 methods:

1. Prepare for English
One of the main obstacles for children who are first-timers to Thailand international schools is English because English is the language of instruction at international schools. If your child is not familiar with English, it can cause stress and insecurity in learning. Therefore, you can prepare them by:

- Take your child to watch English cartoons or movies regularly to familiarize them with the accent and new vocabulary from the cartoons.
- Practice speaking English at home in simple situations such as greetings.
- Read English books to your child and let them try to read aloud by themselves.
- If necessary, send your child to private lessons or practice with an English tutor.

2. Understand the curriculum and learning system
Thailand international schools have different curricula than other schools, such as the IB (International Baccalaureate), British Curriculum, American Curriculum (AP).

- Study the school's curriculum to see how it teaches.
- Understand how the grades and tests are scored.
- Talk to teachers or senior students to learn about their experiences.

3. Help your child adjust to new friends and social circles.
In an international school in Thailand, your child may encounter friends from many countries, cultures, and languages, which can be challenging for children who are shy or unfamiliar with communicating with foreign friends.

- Teach your child about different cultures and respect for diversity.
- Develop social skills such as starting conversations and listening to others.
- Encourage your child to participate in school activities such as sports, music, or clubs to meet new friends.

4. Prepare for the homework and exam system
Thailand international schools often have a constant stream of homework and projects, sometimes more than children are used to in the Thai school system.

- Help your child plan a schedule to do homework and study systematically.
- Encourage your child to do their homework on their own and practice discipline in studying.
- If you find that your child is having problems studying in a subject, you may need to help find additional learning resources, such as online courses or tutors.

Studying at a Thailand international school is a great opportunity for children to expand their horizons and develop the skills they need for the future, but it can also be a difficult time at first. Parental support plays a crucial role in helping children adjust and succeed in school.

If parents can help their children practice the language, understand the curriculum, encourage them to socialize, manage their studies, and provide emotional support, they will be able to grow and learn confidently in an international school.