Back to School Anxiety

School is starting for many children and everyone is probably a little anxious about the new school year. Your children are wondering if their teacher will be nice, if any of their friends will be in their classroom, and if the academics will be too demanding. For children in grades kindergarten thru second grade it may help both the parent and the child feel less anxious if you make time to take your child to school the first day. It's an opportune time to meet their teacher and help your child unpack their school supplies. Usually from third grade and older the children will feel uncomfortable if their parents walk them to their classroom as they are trying to display independence in front of their peers and teachers.

When your child gets home from school try to be there and listen to him or her about their day. Your child will need a empathetic ear that will unconditionally listen about their struggles and triumphs. You can normalize your child's fears at this time by sharing a story from your childhood about school, or even a favorite teacher and memory. It will help your child to understand that everyone experiences similar situations that will be resolved in time.

It may be that your child is very shy and is needing guidance on how to make new friends in the classroom. You can role play asking friends to play at recess, or if you know the parents of a child in the classroom, it may help to schedule play dates for your child, so that he or she may practice their social skills. The more confidence your child displays in social situations the happier he or she will be away from home.

If your child continues to display anxieties about school issues, do not hesitate to discuss them with the teacher or school counselor. They will be able to give you more insight on the concerns and suggestions on how to support your child in the classroom. You can become involved in your parent group at school or try to be a room parent for your child's teacher. These small gestures of support lets your child know that you care and are involved with their life.

Take care and I will write again next week!

Gina