Summertime is ending and it’s time to think about going back to school, which can cause a lot of mixed emotions. The stress and anxiety people feel at this time can happen for a variety of reasons. Teachers and childcare workers may worry about setting classroom expectations and dealing with a new classroom dynamic. Parents may worry about scheduling and transportation. Children worry about doing homework, getting lost, being separated from their parents, and not knowing the other kids in their class.
Regardless, going back to school is a change, and with change comes uncertainty. Here are some tips for dealing with that uncertainty.
Start Prepared
The best way to deal with the unknown is to face it head-on. Preparing your child and making sure they feel ready to deal with whatever challenges may come their way is the most important thing you can do to help them feel better. Some things that may help them feel prepared include, reviewing school rules and expectations, visiting the school, and/or planning a school schedule. For example, if your child is worried about pickup consider driving to school, showing them where you will pick them up, and letting them know when the school day ends.
Be Consistent
It can be hard to encourage anxious kids to go to school if they are nervous or experiencing physical symptoms of their anxiety. However, it is important to start the year in the way you intend to continue. Be firm with expectations and emphasize the importance of good attendance. It may be tempting to let children skip a day or two while they acclimate, but the truth is that skipping school only makes the anxiety worse and can even impede the ability to adjust.
Communicate Effectively
Communication between parents and teachers/childcare workers is essential in ensuring a child’s smooth transition. Parents can briefly let teachers know about their child’s concerns and teachers can provide parents with updates about how their child is adjusting. This collaboration is a proactive approach that ensures children are fully supported. Apps like Childwatch make this 2-way communication easy and effective!
Keep Your Own Emotions in Check
As mentioned before, the start of the school year can cause a little bit of stress/anxiety for all involved parties. Adults have to keep a handle on their own emotions while talking with their children about school to ensure that they do not pass along their own stress and negative emotions.
Reward Effort
Don’t forget to acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements as they conquer their fears. Let them know you see the work they are doing and you are proud of what they have accomplished. This may look like saying “good job today!” or it may look like a treat at the end of the week if they turn their homework in on time.
Going back to school can be daunting because of the unknown factors and the change in routine. However, kids are strong and resilient and can adapt as long as we provide them with the support and tools they need to adjust. The end of summer doesn’t have to be sad, as one season ends another begins with change and excitement.