Does your child start each first day of school with a tummy ache? Does he feel fine on the last day of summer and suddenly wake up with “the worst headache in the world” the next day? If you’re like most and your child doesn’t jump out of bed full of smiles on his first day of school, here are ten tips you can use to ease the back-to-school jitters.
- Ease in: Before school begins, form a new “back-to-school” routine. “In mid-August we have an end of summer fun day with friends,” says Sherry Balzano, high school guidance counselor and mother of two. “Once that day has happened, the alarm clocks get set again, school supplies are purchased and bedtime moves back half an hour. This really helps to ease the transition,” she adds.
- Basic needs: Make sure your child is eating properly, exercising, getting enough rest, and is up-to-date on all immunizations and physicals.
- Talk-Talk-Talk: Communication is key. Ask your child about his fears. What are his concerns? Is he nervous about his new teacher? Is he worried he won’t make new friends? Assure your child you’re listening and make him feel comfortable talking to you.
- Meet the teacher: Many students meet their future teacher before the summer break. If your child’s school does not follow this practice, contact the school and arrange a meeting. It may also be helpful to schedule meetings with other key members of the staff such as the school nurse or principal, so your child feels comfortable going to them when necessary.
- Meet the parents: Join the school PTO and meet other parents from the school. Exchange email addresses and phone numbers with as many parents in your child’s grade as possible. Even if their children aren’t in your child’s class this year, this information may be helpful in years to come. Look to see if your school’s PTO is on Facebook, Google + or any other social media channel.
- Plan a play-date: If your child is apprehensive about making friends in a new classroom, arrange play dates with students in the same class at the school or local park. Chances are some of the parents may be doing the same.
- Keep calm: If you’re expecting your child to be calm, the key is to remain so yourself. Acknowledge the alleged headache or tummy troubles, but don’t run to the phone to call the doctor until you take his temperature. A reading above normal should be taken more seriously.
- Say, “It’s okay”: According to The National Institute of Mental Health, “Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and can actually be beneficial in some situations.” If the anxiety continues beyond the first week or two of school, or if at any time your child becomes debilitated by anxiety, you should speak with your child’s physician.
- Keep a journal: Some children aren’t comfortable talking about feelings, so writing may help them express how they are feeling. If your child won’t talk or write, keep your own journal. Write down when the anxiety started, as well as what helped or didn’t. Next year, refer back to your journal as you near the beginning of the next school year.
- Understand your limits: Mom knows best but remember: You can’t fix everything. Know when to ask for help from a counselor.