Restless nights. Loss of appetite. Tummy aches. People say those are some of the signs your child may be feeling anxious about going back to school. But don’t worry, this is quite normal. Anxious feelings are expected during times of transition or change. This is especially true for children and teens going back to school, or for first-timers starting kindergarten. Prior to the first day of school, your child may cling, cry, have temper tantrums, complain, and become irritable. Here are some ways to get your child ready for going back to school.
1. Talk to your kids about what’s bothering them; be mindful that young children may have difficulty expressing their fears. Older kids may be uncomfortable opening up. Try approaching the subject in an informal setting, such as while you’re out for a walk or out for dinner, so they don’t feel like they’re being put on the spot.
2. Get children back on their regular sleep routine; this should be done weeks before school starts. Sleep in the key to relieving anxiety. Preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours a night; elementary school kids need 10 to 11 hours; preteens and teens should get 8 to 9 hours.
3. Make a list of your child’s fears and find strategies for helping them cope with them and to overcome them.
4. Get your child excited about school by letting them select items such as a new school bag, lunch box, and other supplies.
5. Remind your kids that the school year isn’t just about academics, but also social and sport activities; talk to them about the clubs and sports they would like to get involved in to make there school year better.
6. Explain that new situations can be stressful and scary but that they do get better with familiarity.
7. The night before school, have children prepare their outfit, school bag and lunch rather than in the morning so it is less of a rush.