The Mental Health Minute - January Edition

Tips for Dealing with Back-to-School Anxiety

Childhood is a pivotal time for learning and emotional development, yet it often comes with the challenge of managing overwhelming emotions. Anxiety, a prevalent issue among children, manifests in various ways, making it difficult for parents and caregivers to identify and address. Symptoms such as physical discomfort, excessive worry, avoidance behaviours and anger-related outbursts are common signs of anxiety.

Anxiety can significantly impact a child’s schooling and as a parent, it can be difficult to know how to help your child cope with anxiety and the return to school. Here are a few tips for helping your child manage anxiety.

Talk to your child about their feelings. Encourage your child to express fears and concerns about returning to school. Actively listen, validate their feelings, rather than dismissing these fears (“Nothing to be worried about! You’ll be fine!) and assure them of your support. Let them know that it is normal to feel anxious in new situations is normal and that you are there to support them and demonstrate confidence that they can handle the situation.

Create a plan for addressing anxiety. Work with your child to develop a plan for coping with anxiety when it arises. This can include deep breathing exercises, visualization techniques, or other relaxation strategies. Talk to the teacher as much as possible in advance and make them aware of the situation.

Start a routine early before school starts and do some test runs. Help your child build confidence by helping them to give them time to get used to the new school or new classroom in advance. Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine get your child to the school schedule before it officially begins.

Goodbye rituals can alleviate separation anxiety. Create specific rituals, such as special handshakes, hugs or placing a transitional object in their backpack. These rituals provide reassurance and help children feel connected to their parents even when apart.

Encouraging positive thinking. Highlight the positive aspects of returning to school, set realistic goals with your child and praise their efforts. Ensure your body language during goodbyes reflects confidence and cheerfulness.

Seek professional help if anxiety persists and significantly impacts your child’s day. A mental health professional can offer additional support and resources. Consult with a General Practitioner to explore symptoms and discuss potential treatment options.

It’s important to understand that anxiety is a normal part of life and each child is unique. What works for one child may not work for another. Patience, understanding and a positive attitude are essential components in helping children cope with their anxiety.

For additional information and resources, parents can refer to websites such as Raising Children Network, The Child Mind Institute and The Brave Program.

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