The start of a new school year can evoke a wave of emotions for children and teens. While some experience the excitement of a new year looking forward to reuniting with friends and teachers, others may feel anxious and unsettled
about the many unknowns of what’s to come. These feelings are all normal and reflect the significant transition each new school year brings. Understanding and addressing these feelings can help create a smoother transition back to the
classroom.
The return to the classroom can feel unsettling for a number of reasons. There are changes in routines, new teachers, new classmates, social pressures of fitting in and stress of school work that can feel overwhelming for many. It’s
important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling anxious about returning to school; many kids and teens share similar concerns and fears.
Here are 5 tips to help support school age child(ren):
- Start adjusting bedtime and wake-up times a couple of weeks before school starts. Create a consistent morning routine, to help your child know what to expect each day.
- If possible, visit the school beforehand to familiarize your child with the school environment. Connect with their homeroom teacher, request a meet and greet before the first day.
- Have open discussions about their fears or concerns about their first day. Validate their emotions and let them know that these feelings are perfectly normal and that they’re not alone.
- Prepare for the first day together. Involve your child in picking out their outfits and school supplies.
- Teach your child about calming activities. Create a calm-down kit with items that help soothe them, like a favorite book or toy.
Here are 5 tips to navigate those back to school nerves (for teens):
- Talk it out. Share your feelings with a friend, family member or safe person.
- Identify school resources like counselors or clubs that can provide additional support.
- Practice self care. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, and engage in some form of regular physical activity leading up to, and during, school.
- Limit screen time! Set boundaries for social media use, especially before bedtime.
- Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or journaling and utilize positive self- talk.
If you’re feeling anxious about returning to school, remember it is completely normal and those feelings are shared by many students. Finding support in a community and connecting with others navigating similar experiences can also be extremely helpful.
If you have any tips or strategies you find helpful, share them with our Upopolis community by visiting our social pages on Instagram (@upopolis) or Facebook (@upopolis) and sending us a message!