Back to School Time!
Back to School - Make it a good start!
Mental Health Matters!
The
beginning of a new school year can be a stressful time for children.
The start of a school year brings new teachers and classmates, bigger
classrooms, new routines and more schoolwork. This time can be
particularly unnerving and overwhelming for children who are facing
major transitions such as starting elementary school, entering middle
school or high school or heading off to college for the first time. As
a parent there are proactive steps you can take to support your child
as he or she heads back to school.
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Express interest and enthusiasm about the start of the school year. If you are confident and excited, your child will be too.
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If you have visited your child's school already, you are one step ahead of the game. If not,
take a walk around the school with your child
and locate his or her classrooms, lunchroom, playground and restrooms.
This will help keep your child from feeling lost on the first day.
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Take time to listen to your child
and discuss aspects of the new school year that he or she is worried
about. Remember to let your child know that it's normal to feel nervous
about the start of school. For parents of younger children, suggest
that your child take a family photo or special object to school to make
his or her surroundings more comfortable.
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Spend time each day talking to your child about what happened in school. Give your child positive feedback about his or her new experiences.
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Praise and encourage your child to become involved with school activities and try new things.
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Attend school functions and stay involved in your child's education. Children
whose parents are more involved with their education have higher
achievement, are better adjusted and are less likely to drop out of
school.
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Make a point to learn about how your child develops
not just physically, but socially and emotionally, as well. If you
are aware of what's typical behavior and thoughts for your child's
stage of life you will be able to tell more readily when things may not
be right.
Anxiety
and stress about starting school is normal for a child and usually
passes within the first few days or weeks. If your child continues to
seem anxious or stressed, it may be time to seek help. Talk to your
child's pediatrician about what you can do as a parent. If problems
persist, consider a referral to a trained and qualified mental health
professional. Visit our online provider directory to find a mental health professional specializing in children and teens.
Helpful Web sites for Parents
Back-to-School Transitions: Tips for Parents
Helpful Advice on Beating Back to School Anxiety
Back to School Resources for Parents, Students and Educators
