How to Help Your Young Child Get Ready for the School Year After Summer Break
It’s that time of year again when the big yellow school buses start rolling through neighborhoods, and the sound of school bells fills the air. For many families, the beginning of the school year brings excitement as children gear up to reunite with friends, meet new teachers, and embrace fresh learning opportunities. However, for some children, particularly younger ones, the transition from the carefree days of summer to the structured school environment can be overwhelming and even scary. This is a common experience, but there are several strategies that parents can use to ease the process and help their child feel more prepared for the new school year.
Check Your Own Emotions
As parents, sending a child off to school—especially for the first time—can be an emotional experience. Whether it’s watching them board the bus for kindergarten or dropping them off for their first day of first grade, feelings of sadness, anxiety, and pride are normal. However, children are incredibly perceptive and often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If you’re feeling nervous or sad, try to manage those emotions and project a positive attitude for your child. Showing confidence and excitement about this new chapter will help reassure them that school is a fun and safe place to be.
Shop and Talk
For children who are feeling nervous about starting school, engaging in an activity like shopping for school supplies or clothes can be an excellent way to open up a conversation about their feelings. Many young children may not want to talk directly about their fears, but participating in a fun and necessary activity can create a relaxed atmosphere where they feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts. Ask them what they’re looking forward to, and gently explore any worries they might have. While it’s important to let them express their fears, try to guide the conversation toward positive aspects of school, like making new friends, participating in activities, or learning new things. By focusing on the fun aspects, you can help them see that while change can be scary, it can also be exciting and full of possibilities.
Practice the Routine
One of the biggest challenges children face when returning to school is adjusting to the structured schedule after a more relaxed summer routine. During the break, bedtimes often become later, and mornings start slower. To make the transition smoother, start reintroducing your child to a school-year sleep schedule about a week before school begins. Gradually set earlier bedtimes and wake-up times to help their body adjust to the routine. This can prevent the shock of suddenly having to wake up early and be ready for a full day of learning.
Connect with Future Classmates
If your child doesn’t know anyone in their class, it can increase anxiety about starting school. To help them feel more comfortable, try arranging a playdate or a meet-up with one or two classmates before school starts. Whether they’re new to the school or simply in a class with unfamiliar faces, knowing they have a friend or two when they walk into the classroom can make the first day much less intimidating. Familiar faces can ease anxiety and give your child someone to look forward to seeing when school begins.
Get Guidance if Needed
Sometimes, despite all the preparation, a child may still struggle with back-to-school anxiety. If the stress becomes overwhelming, or if you're unsure how to help them manage their fears, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional. A counselor or therapist can provide valuable strategies to help both you and your child cope with the transition. Early intervention can prevent anxiety from becoming a larger issue and ensure that your child starts the school year feeling supported and ready to thrive.
If you’re concerned about your child’s anxiety as the new school year approaches, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support. I’d be happy to discuss treatment options and help you find the best way to support your child during this transition. With the right tools and mindset, both you and your child can navigate this exciting yet challenging time with confidence.
SOURCES
https://psychcentral.com/news/2006/08/07/control-back-to-school-anxiety/160.html