High school open days are in full swing. Exciting! For elementary school students, a period full of new adventures begins. But there is also a big unknown world waiting for them, high school. After all, there are some big differences between eighth grade and the first class. Feelings of excitement and a good deal of nerves trip over each other. And as a parent, you share those emotions. Therefore, starting in time to visit open days is not such a bad plan, right?

In this blog, we would like to take you into the world of high schools. And we will give you some tips on how you as a parent can tackle the open days together with your child. Because choosing the right high school is not just a decision. Sometimes there is a little more to it than you think. We tell you what to expect and what to look out for.

Prepared to hit the road

Of course, we all know the saying "a good start, is half the battle." And it is no different for attending open days. Good preparation is the key to a successful open day. But where to start? The choices are endless! How about putting together a list of high schools you want to visit? You and your child can do this based on several things, such as distance from home, educational offerings, teaching style or certain facilities a high school offers.

And what is your child himself looking for? What things are important to him or her? Where do interests lie? For example, what gives your child energy? Is your child practical and technical? Or rather helpful, sporty or creative?

In addition, research schools online, talk to other parents, or read school guides. By making these preparations together, you can approach the open day with a clear plan of action. It will give you an idea of what you want to know and discover. Also remember to visit several open days, only then can you really compare.

Looking for all open days? You can find them via the OpenDagenPlanner!

The first open day

Is it your first open day? If so, you may experience shaky knees, jittery nerves and a lot of jitters. After all, it means the first step towards the great unknown, high school. Your child will spend much of his or her time there. And that along with new teachers, new classmates and a new way of learning. No worries. Often those new teachers know how to handle the nerves and jitters.

Despite all the excitement, an open house provides an opportunity to get a good taste of the atmosphere. You can look around the classrooms, library and sports facilities together. It is also an excellent opportunity to ask questions. And not only to new teachers, but also to current students. Because not all teachers are strict. And you don't get mountains of homework right away, either. Sometimes it can be quite exciting. But did you know that asking questions often wants to help with those whooping nerves? Win-win!

Furthermore, as a parent, you get a much better impression of how the school handles appointments and rules, freedom and responsibilities. And how does the high school keep in touch with you? Via e-mail or letters? Or the well-known Magister app? Such an open day can give you a better idea of that. It's good to be involved in what's going on at school. After all, in high school you have much less insight into this than in elementary school.

Extra support

Support. Not every child will need it. But some children find the transition to middle school a big challenge and need a helping hand. That's totally okay! Ask about options such as homework help, extra guidance from the mentor or tutoring. The right support can really make a world of difference!

Choice stress! Or isn't it?

After attending such an open day, it is time for one of the most fun, but also one of the most important things: looking back on the day together and taking stock. What appealed to your child the most? And where did you see your child's eyes light up completely? Was it in the chemistry lab or just on the big sports field? Make a list together of what you saw, such as the pluses, the minuses, the atmosphere and any extras the school offers. Do this for each high school you visit. It will help you make the right choice later.

Did you visit all the high schools you wanted to visit? Great! Then it's time to get the lists together and put them side by side. Which school would your child like to attend? And which school do you think is appropriate? Ultimately, it's about finding a place where your child feels at home, can be themselves and grow. Remember to take your time. The best choice is the one that you all agree on together.