Around this time each year, parents start to get back in school mode. I know that mentally preparing is not just something the kids have to do, but we as the parents will also have to. So first off, I want to say to any parent out there trying to figure out the best route for your child in these very odd times, I want to let you know that whatever decision you make is absolutely the best decision for YOUR family. Anyway, as we get ready to head back to school, here are some tips to help ease the anxiety we all might be feeling.
- Have honest conversations with your child about going back to school. Even if the school year is different this year, we still want to make our kids aware of the new reality and mentally start to prepare. Talk about expectations, and set the groundwork for what the school year possible could be. Use this as a time to understand how they feel about returning to school.
- Transition into school year routines, I know those summer months can be laxer, and practices tend to fall off. But with school right around the corner, help your child not feel like everything wholly changed overnight. Start to get into your school year routine. Everyone (including us as the parents) goes to bed on time, wakes up early, and takes showers.
- Be a sounding board as a parent; many of us are trying to figure out ways to make it a smooth sailing school year. But, we must try to stay calm and focused on our kids, be the listening ear, and hear them out rather than trying to have an answer and solution.
- Focus on the positive and amazing things the new school year will bring. So much is going on, and we are in an adjustment phase. So our minds tend to focus more on the negative than the positive. Rather than focusing on all the challenges the school year will bring, switch your mindset to focus on the positive. Like the great things your child will be learning this school year, The new grade they are entering, and just being able to see the positive and silver lining in it all will ease yours and your child’s mind.
- Keep your mind on the things you can control! There is so much we don’t control. Keep our mind on the things we have control over, like buying back-to-school clothing, because no matter how the school year goes, there is no reason why we can not look fly (whether in person or at school). Focus on getting school supplies that will make life easier for the school year.
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A pandemic or not starting a new school year can cause anxiety to both the parent and child. Especially if your child is moving to a new school, going to a new class with a new teacher, or just general first-day jitters. I think the prime way of combating anxiety and high emotion is to focus on the things within our control and stay positive as much as possible.
How are you all feeling about going back to school? What are your emotions towards it all?
BlessedNaturally says
This is a great list of tips for preparing our babies to go back to school! My son is currently a little sad that he wont be able to be in "real school" right away! Much Success to your little ones!
Jasmine says
This are great tips but I’m so glad my Kids aren’t school age yet.
Monica says
I’m grateful my children are not yet school aged but I even had anxiety about sending them back to daycare once it reopened. These are such challenging times as a parent.
Beckyelsie says
These are great tips, thank you! I especially love that we should buy new clothes, regardless, and I know that will help a lot with attitudes.
Sundae Sunday Blog says
This tips are definitely needed. Thank you for sharing.