As mental health therapists working with children, we understand that returning to school can be overwhelming. We’ve compiled tips to help parents support their child’s emotional needs during this transition. Let’s explore how you can nurture your child’s social-emotional growth.
Back-to-school Routines: Re-establish a daily routines with regular sleep patterns, meals, and designated study time. A structured routine helps children feel more in control and reduces anxiety about the unknown. Start incorporating changes in their morning and night schedules so that they can fall back into a school day rhythm by the end of the summer.
- Sample Morning Routine:
- Wake them up 15 minutes earlier every day in the last few days of summer for a smooth and gradual transition
- Define a series of simple steps they can follow when they wake up in the morning so they know what to expect
- Give them something engaging and fun that they can look forward to, like a 5-minute stretching routine they can follow when they wake up or preparing a breakfast that they would enjoy
- Don’t forget to praise them when they complete steps in their morning routine so they can feel more confident in themselves
- Sample Evening Routine:
- Identify their sleeping patterns over the summer and set a reasonable but earlier bedtime in the last few days of summer — have them sleep 15 minutes earlier every day until they reach their regular school day bedtime
- Carve out time before bed so they can process their worries for the day with you and not bring that anxiety into their sleep
- Dial back on electronics, especially before bedtime
- Keep routines during long breaks (winter break, spring break)
Encourage open and honest communication: with your child about their feelings regarding going back to school. Create a safe space where they can share any worries, anxieties, or excitement they may be experiencing. Validating their emotions helps them feel understood and supported, which is essential for their social-emotional well-being. Be Involved and supportive; Stay involved in your child’s academic life by asking about their day and showing interest in their schoolwork.
Attend Orientation Events: If the school offers orientation events or open houses, make an effort to attend with your child. This can help them become familiar with the school environment and meet their teachers before classes start.
Discuss Goals and Expectations: Have a conversation with your child about their academic and personal goals for the year. Set realistic expectations together and discuss ways to achieve those goals.
Stay Informed about School Events during the Year: Stay updated on school events, parent-teacher conferences, and important dates. Being informed will allow you to stay involved in your child’s education.
Celebrate Achievements: Celebrate your child’s accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognition and encouragement can boost their self-confidence and motivation.
By being involved, supportive, and understanding, you can help your adolescent have a successful and enjoyable back-to-school experience.
About the Authors:
Kathy Urgo is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 27 years of experiences providing individual counseling, conflict management counseling, trauma counseling, behavioral counseling, group counseling, and social skills group counseling to children. Kathy is very passionate in helping children gain insight into themselves, their strengths, and overall resilience.
Tarrah Johnson is a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). Tarrah has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. She carries expertise with youth facing a variety of obstacles in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationships, school avoidance, emotional regulation, and social skills. She believes that there is nothing more important than developing resilience in children and adolescents by strengthening their self-awareness, and self-management skills.