As summer winds down, another school year is right around the corner. Switching from laid back summertime fun to a more structured day, rules, and homework can be a big adjustment for children and parents. It is normal for your child to feel a wide range of emotions during this time. There may be feelings of sadness as summer time comes to an end; excitement to go back to see friends; and for some there may be feelings of nervousness. It is normal for kids to feel a little nervous or scared on the first day of school because of all the new things they may encounter (new teachers, new friends and maybe even a new school).
Fortunately there are things you can do to help ease your child (and family) back into the transition of school.
1. Provide a consistent routine. Developing a consistent morning and evening routine and even a good bye routine at school drop off time can help lower your child’s anxiety. Consistency helps provide safety and security for children.
2. Keep lines of communication open. Talk with your child about their concerns with school and even role play how to handle these situations.
3. Most importantly, make sure to get plenty of sleep. It is helpful to establish a sleep routine before the first week of school to help with this transition. Also keep in mind children between the ages of 5 and 12 need 10-11 hours of sleep each night.
4. Pack your backpack the night before and leave it by the front door to help ensure that things run more smoothly the next morning.
5. Eat a healthy breakfast every morning before school.
For children who may experience more anxiety during this time there are additional suggestions parents can take to help:
1. Let your child know you care- you can send personal notes in the lunch box or backpac
2. Do not overreact. The first few days may be difficult, especially for younger children, try not to overreact. During drop-off time, do not linger. Reassure them that you love them, you believe in their ability to be successful, and will see them after school.
3. Reinforce your child’s ability to cope. Give your child a few simple strategies to help him/her manage a difficult situation.
4. Most importantly maintain a positive attitude towards school. Children are sensitive to their parent’s energy and will mirror how they feel.
If your child continues to experience severe anxiety with going to school you might want to seek professional help. At Crossroads Family Counseling Center, LLC we are experienced Child and Family Therapists specializing in
childhood anxiety. Contact us at crossroadsfcc@gmail.com or 703-380-9045.
Written by: Denise Booth who is a Virginia Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years experience working with children and families. She specializes in providing therapy to children and adolescents dealing with trauma and PTSD, behavioral issues at home and school, as well as anxiety, depression, self-esteem and substance abuse. In her work with parents, she strives to enhance parent-child relationships and strengthen parenting skills.
