The start of a new school year has begun for most students. For some, the new year brings excitement. For some, it brings with it worry and unease. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, struggling with academic pressures, or feeling overwhelmed with all of the demands, your support is crucial when they are struggling to return to school and can create a smooth transition.
Open Communication
Create a safe space for your child to share how they are feeling about school. Listen without judgment and validate how they are feeling. For example, are they feeling overwhelmed with the amount of work that needs to be done each week? It could be helpful to say, “It feels so overwhelming to have so much to get done, not know where to start, or how to complete everything”. Asking open-ended questions can encourage your child to share more information. Consider questions like, “What are you most excited for this year?” or “Is there anything you’re worried about?”.
Establish a Routine
Following a consistent schedule can ease your child’s adjustment to the school year. This can include consistent wake-up and bedtime routines, which will help regulate their body clock and (hopefully) reduce morning stress. An after-school routine can also help them have something to look forward to. Read our previous blog post about supporting your student after school for ideas. Creating a specific time and quiet place for your child to complete homework or study is also important. Consistency can help them build good habits and also help reduce procrastination. A designated homework time can also be a time to help your child with whatever feels like too much for them.
Create a Supportive Environment
Celebrate victories, no matter how small, and the progress that your child makes, no matter how minor they might seem. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and motivation. A positive environment can also include a comfortable and quiet place to study. A place free from siblings yet close enough if there are questions. Additionally, a limited-clutter space can help improve focus and reduce stress.
Address Anxiety
Anxiety is a normal reaction to new situations and the unknown of a new school year. Staying physically active is a great way to reduce the impact symptoms of anxiety can have on your student. Being active could include participating in a sport, going for a walk, or biking to a friend’s house. Meditation or mindfulness can also help reduce anxiety and stress. Deep breathing, even a couple of deep breaths, is a great starting place. If anxiety or stress seems like too much for your student, consider having them meet with the school counselor or a therapist. Sometimes having another adult to talk with can be helpful.
Be Involved
Show your school support by attending activities and events, as well as extracurricular activities. This could include parent-teacher conferences, school carnivals, or Friday night football games. Your involvement shows your student that you care. Keep an eye on your child’s academic performance. Discuss with your child what this will look like. As their adult, you likely have access to their grades or feedback from teachers and others. Regularly checking in, in agreed-upon ways, can help you stay informed about your child’s progress as well as any possible issues.
Encourage Social Connections
Friends and social activities are helpful when anyone is under stress or struggling. Help your student connect with others by encouraging time with friends or arranging playdates. Checking in with them about extracurricular activities or clubs they might be interested in joining can be another way to seek connection. If they are feeling worried about approaching someone new, you might consider role playing what they could say to help them feel more confident. While this might feel awkward, it really can help!
Healthy Choices
In addition to the above-described ways to help support your student, ensuring that they are eating a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, as well as protein is also important. Good nutrition supports overall wellbeing and gives them the energy they need. Staying physically active is also important as a way to reduce stress and improve their mood.
Returning to school after summer break can be a challenging and stressful transition for students, but with the right support, it can also be exciting and fun. By maintaining open communication, establishing or restarting routines, and fostering a supportive environment, you can help your child navigate this transition with confidence. Here’s to a successful school year ahead!
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