Summer is over and soon it will be necessary to escort the children back to school. Some are full of expectations, while in others, the return to school desks will evoke some bitterness, even anxiety. How to help a child if he has anxiety before returning to school?
When it's summer vacation are coming to an end and the time is approaching when it will be necessary to go back to school, the excitement of the new school year is mixed with a wave of fear. It's back-to-school anxiety! Both for students and parents and teachers. The anxious feelings that some children experience before the new school year are not unusual. They are a mixture of feelings of stress, nervousness and discomfort when returning to the routine that prevails during the flight.
Understanding back-to-school anxiety
Anxiety going back to school can manifest itself in different ways. Students may be afraid of meeting new classmates, adjusting to new teachers, tackling challenging subjects or even worrying about fitting into society. On the other hand, parents may feel anxiety related to their child's academic performance, bullying or general happiness. Teachers can also be concerned about managing classroom dynamics, curriculum changes, and meeting the diverse needs of students.
Unaddressed anxiety can lead to a range of negative outcomes. These can manifest in sleep disturbances, irritability, reduced concentration and even physical symptoms such as stomach aches and headaches. Persistent anxiety can hinder success in school and dampen the overall joy of learning. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize and address these feelings.
Tips for overcoming back-to-school anxiety
1. Open communication: encourage open conversations with children about their school-related feelings and concerns. Provide a safe space for them to express their concerns without judgment.
2. Establish a routine: a structured routine can ease the transition from summer to the school months. Gradually re-establish regular sleep patterns and meal times in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.
3. Visit the school: for younger students or those entering a new school, visiting the school building can reduce anxiety. Make sure you walk by before September starts.
4. Set realistic goals: help children set achievable goals for the school year. This can boost their confidence.
5. Practice relaxation techniques: learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness or meditation to manage anxious feelings.
6. Encourage positivity: focus on the positive aspects of school, such as seeing friends again, material in your favorite subjects, and learning new things.
7. Collaborate with teachers: build a healthy relationship with teachers by attending parent-teacher conferences and discussing any concerns or special needs your child may have.
8. Encourage socialization: encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities. This helps him find new friends and feel more connected.
9. Seek professional help: if the anxiety persists and is having a major impact on your child's well-being, consider seeking professional help.
