A new school year can bring on many emotions ranging from excitement and curiosity to worry and apprehension. Some unanswered questions that may linger in your child’s mind include whether he will like his teachers, if her friends will be in her classroom, if he will get lost in the building, or whether she will be successful. Back-to-school anxiety can affect kids of all ages, from kindergarten through college. It’s important to get to the bottom of what’s causing your child to worry — or to go as far as avoiding school. Through its research, the American Academy of Pediatrics found that some kids struggle emotionally with issues like fear of failure, problems with other kids, anxieties over using a public bathroom, a perceived meanness of the teacher, threats of physical harm like from a school bully, or actual physical harm.
start time. This means going to bed earlier every night, as well. You can create a workspace or study area that your child likes to spend time in with good lighting and a comfortable, supportive chair. Your child can decorate this area with his favorite colors, hobbies, sports, or photos of friends. Don’t forget to include a calendar so he can write down important dates. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to point out the positive aspects of starting school, such as seeing old friends and meeting new ones, to create positive anticipation. You may want to find another child in the neighborhood to accompany your child on the bus or walk with her. The AAP also mentions how having the right backpack can make a huge difference. The best backpack is one with wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back, and one that is packed lightly. A rolling backpack is a great option if permitted.
Be sympathetic & understanding if your child tells you why he finds the start of school to be stressful.
You want to address your child’s thoughts and feelings and not ignore or make light of them. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reports that when anxiety in kids goes untreated, they are more likely to perform poorly in school and miss out on important social experiences. The best way to alleviate fears is to talk about what to expect. Be sympathetic and understanding if your child tells you why he finds the start of school to be stressful. Validate his feelings and let your child know it’s okay. It can help to practice the school routine prior to the first day. This means getting up earlier than usual, having the bookbag packed, and enjoying a nourishing breakfast. Some schools have orientations or tours where you can find the classrooms and get to meet the teachers in advance. Make back-to-school shopping a fun experience by involving your child in the decisions of backpacks, supplies, gym shoes, and clothes. You can gradually adjust the alarm clock so your child wakes up earlier instead of suddenly having a new
Find out about the extra benefits your child’s school has to offer and discuss them with her. There may be an extracurricular activity like a club or sport where she can participate and gain independence and confidence. Staying active as a family can be beneficial, as well. When you help your child get to know his new surroundings and talk about what lies ahead, the school year becomes easier to approach. The American Psychological Association says that parents should get to know members of the school and community that can help support their child in the transition. If the back-to-school anxiety becomes too much for you and your child to handle on your own, you may want to reach out to a trustworthy and knowledgeable pediatrician or counselor for further guidance. Now, it’s time to mark your calendar with a smiley face on the big first day. Family • August 2022
31