The transition back to school after summer break can be an overwhelming and stressful time for children and disruptive for the entire family. In the day’s leading up to the first day of school, your child may have temper tantrums, cling on to you, become irritable and may complain of headaches or stomach aches. It is important to validate your child’s concerns, however it is crucial to have your child attend school. Skipping school will only increase your child’s fears.

How You’re Feeling Can Directly Impact Your Child

First thing parents should do is check in with themselves. Kids can often tell if you are feeling nervous, so managing your own stress is a good way to help them feel calm. Be sure to listen to your child’s worries and validate their concerns. You can also provide them with solutions for managing stress, such as breathing and relaxation techniques.

What Causes Children To Worry?

Some children’s worries are rooted in a fear of starting at a new school or being away from their family. Other children may be worried about making friends and fitting in, while others may worry about the upcoming workload and their capability of being successful. Good news is, back to school jitters should gradually diminish after a few weeks!

Three Tips To Help Your Child Manage Back To School Anxiety

Here are a few tips on how you can help your child navigate through this stressful time:

• A week or two before school starts prepare your child for the upcoming transition by resuming school year routines. This may include a school day sleep and wake up schedule, preparing school clothing or uniform the night before, preparing lunches, packing school supplies, etc.

• Take your child to tour the school and rehearse drop off. If allowed, spending some time on school grounds should help ease your child’s anxiety as they become more comfortable with their surroundings. If the school is open, you can practice walking to class together, identifying bathroom locations, front office, nurse’s office, and playground.

• Arrange playdates for your child with familiar peers who will be attending the same school. If possible, have your child go to school with a friend for the first couple of days.

Please note that anxiety symptoms that persist beyond a month and present excessive or unmanageable may require consultation with a professional.

For more information about helping manage anxiety you can contact us or set up an appointment for child therapy.

Written by; Jennifer Cerron, RMHCI

Independent Contractor, Genesis Counseling Florida