School starting back up can be bittersweet! As the days of sleeping in and late nights come to an end, heading back into a routine can also feel good.
Here are a few tips as you head into the new school year…
Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Encourage them to share their feelings, whether they're excited, anxious, or unsure about the upcoming school year. You don't have to talk them out of their feelings. Often times, our kiddos being nervous and dysregulated can make us dysregulated. We then feel a need to “fix” or talk them out of their feelings so . Try to be a safe place for their feelings and to just listen.
Normalize Anxiety: It's okay for your child to feel nervous about the changes ahead. Validate their emotions and reassure them that it's normal to feel a range of emotions during transitions. At my house we often call this feeling “nervi-cited!” Nervous and excited combined! Excited to see friends and start a new year, but also nervous for the un-known- that’s a lot to feel at once! The most important message for your child/teen to hear is that you are there to help them and they are not alone.
Establish Routines: Help your child ease into the school routine by gradually reintroducing bedtime and morning routines a few days before school starts. Predictability can provide comfort and stability. It can also help them adjust their sleep schedule, which will help them regulate big emotions a little easier.
Encourage Self-Care: Model and encourage self-care practices for your child, such as getting enough sleep, eating well- balanced meals, and engaging in physical activity. These habits support overall well-being. When these things are modeled for your child they become part of the overall culture of your home!
Stay Informed: Stay informed about your child's school policies and procedures. This helps your child be prepared for what is going on at school. Knowledge empowers you to address any concerns your child may have. Keeping on top of newsletters and emails can be a difficult task for parents! But there is nothing worse for your child then showing up at school and feeling unprepared because something was missed. This is a great way for you and your child to work together, make a family calendar that is posted in a common area where everyone can see important things coming up like “back-to-school” night!
Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate small achievements, whether it's making new friends, completing homework, or trying something new at school. Positive reinforcement fosters resilience! And, the “little wins” help build confidence.
Remember, each child adjusts to change differently, so be patient with them and with yourself as you navigate this transition together. Your support and understanding make a world of difference!
You got this!
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