Starting the new school year can be very exciting for some kids! They look forward to a fresh start with a new class, new teacher and new friends. But, for some kids, the idea of change can be extremely intimidating and cause anxiety.
Common worries in children can be: Will I have any friends in my new class? Will I fit in? Will I like my teacher? Will I be able open my locker? Who will I sit with at lunch? Will I understand my new schoolwork? Will I be able to figure out my new schedule and find my classes?
Some general tips to help with back to school anxiety are as follows:
- About a week before school, start your child on a school-day routine. Have them go to bed early and wake up early and eat at regular times. Have the whole family participate on the new schedule so everyone is adjusted.
- Include them with the back to school shopping for supplies. This will help adjust them to the idea that school is starting soon.
- Ask them to organize their school clothes so they feel confident in what outfits they plan to wear.
- For new students, be sure to attend any orientations available and tour the school so the student knows where things are. Ask for a map of the school. Introduce them to the school counselor and their teacher, if possible.
- On the first day of school, send a reassuring note in their lunch to help ease separation anxiety.
- If the child has a small keepsake object, allow them to bring it with them and keep in their backpack for reassurance.
We hope these ideas will help with the back to school process and we hope everyone has a great new school year!
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