7 Tools to Help With Back To School Anxiety
As the summer days are starting to whine down, and the back to school season approaches, many children experience a mix of emotions, from excitement to anxiety, and others in between. For some, the thought of returning to school can trigger feelings of stress and apprehension. As parents and caregivers, it’s essential to recognize these feelings and provide the necessary support to help children navigate this transition smoothly.
Here are some effective strategies to use when supporting kiddos dealing with anxiety and stress about returning to school:
Open Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings about returning to school. Create a safe space for them to share their worries without judgment. Listening actively and validating their feelings can help them feel understood and less isolated in their anxiety. Share personal experiences from your life to relate to how they may be feeling, such as “when I returned to work after being away for a bit, it felt scary too.”
Establish a Routine: Children thrive on structure and routine. Establishing a consistent daily routine can help ease anxiety as it helps kids predict what is coming next. Gradually reintroduce school-year routines, such as regular bedtimes and morning schedules, a few weeks before school starts. This can help your child adjust to the upcoming changes and feel more prepared.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises (belly/balloon breathing), mindfulness, or yoga. These practices can help them manage stress and anxiety when they feel overwhelmed. Consider practicing these techniques together to make it a fun bonding experience!
Foster a Positive Mindset: Encourage a positive outlook by focusing on the exciting aspects of returning to school, such as seeing friends, engaging in new activities, or learning new subjects. Help your child set realistic goals for the school year, emphasizing personal growth and achievements rather than perfection.
Visit the School: If possible, take your child to visit their school before the first day. Familiarizing them with the environment, meeting teachers, and exploring classrooms can help reduce anxiety about the unknown. This can also provide an opportunity to discuss any specific concerns they may have. If you can’t get into the school, playing on the playground, tarmac and school field can also help your child see where they will be able to play and engage with friends. If you’ll be walking to school, practicing the walk a week or so before school can also help them see and experience what that first day of school walk will be like.
Encourage Social Connections: Help your child reconnect with friends before school starts. Organizing playdates or group activities can ease the transition and remind them that they are not alone in their feelings. Building a support network can significantly alleviate anxiety. Gather some friends to play a game of 4-square or basketball at the school so they can continue to build familiarity.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your child’s anxiety is severe or persistent, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. At New Moon Counselling we have amazing therapists that specialise in working with children and teens. A therapist can provide coping strategies and tools tailored to your child’s needs, helping them manage their anxiety effectively, and support parents by sharing parenting tools and strategies to support your kiddo at home.
Returning to school can be a challenging time for many children, but with the right support, they can navigate their feelings of anxiety and stress. By fostering open communication, establishing routines, and encouraging positive connections, you can help your child feel more confident and prepared for the school year ahead. Remember, it’s okay to seek help when needed, and your support can make all the difference in their transition back to school.
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Written by: Ivonne Hammoud MSW, RSW
Ivonne is the owner, and clinical therapist at New Moon Counselling. She is passionate about supporting her clients through whatever challenges come their way. Ivonne bring an enthusiastic, inovative and down to earth approach to her therapy. She works primarily with adults and couples. Not currently accepting new clients.