7 helpful tips to address back-to-school anxiety
How to manage back-to-school anxiety
As students, families, teachers, and parents prepare for going back to school, there are often a lot of emotions. Some students are excited, some are nervous, some are angry, and others unsure or experience a combination of many feelings. The one certainty is that people are talking and having feelings about going back to school. And heading back to school means a change in routines. There is no one right way to prepare or respond, however, here are some suggestions to consider:
Tip One - Routines
Before school starts, help kids establish healthy routines including bedtime, getting up in the morning, screen time, and regular meals.
Tip Two - Listen
Listen to your children and validate their thoughts and feelings; just saying ‘don’t worry’ may cause more anxiety and possibly prevent kids from expressing themselves.
Tip Three - Self-check
Check in with your stress levels – remember that everything doesn’t need to be “perfect” for the first day.
Tip Four - Fun transition
Blend back to school with fun activities so transition is less sudden. For example, plan a trip to the lake, go hiking, a shopping or movie outing, camping, or whatever your child enjoys.
Tip Five - Be attentive
Ask questions and listen to what your child is saying about his or her experiences the first few weeks of school. Don’t try to “fix” everything, rather listen and figure out a plan together (if needed).
Tip Six - Be prepared
Prepare for what you can – anxiety thrives in uncertainty – so do a test run for school, go to open houses or school community events offered before the beginning of school and in the first few weeks of the start of school.
Tip Seven - Communicate with the school
Talk to school counselors to provide updates since the previous school year regarding any social, family, emotional or behavioral issues that may have arisen.
Bonus!
If you child continues to struggle with being back in the school routine you may want to consider professional help. Having a professional to lend their expertise and guidance on navigating these changes can help both the child and parents. If you would like to request an appointment with one of our expert staff, please contact us.
