Going back to school can be a really exciting time for children – new teachers, different learning environment, and everything has a fresh feeling to it. However, for some children, it can be a time of stress and anxiety. Change doesn’t come easy to all children and sometimes they just need a little bit of encouragement in order to succeed in a new classroom. How can you help your child make the right transition to a new school year?
Try to understand their fears. Put yourself in their shoes and try to remember how you felt at their age. Starting a new grade in school can be scary, no matter what age you are, but it eventually feels normal with time. Even if you’ve never experienced their nervousness firsthand, it’s a natural feeling and they just need the encouragement to move forward. By giving them the reigns to “jump in” to this new experience, yet also providing them a safety net, children can feel protected yet in control of their own lives. Strength through family can be all they need to get through the anxiety. However, it’s their inner strength that makes this transition possible, so they need to feel like they’re doing it on their own in the long run.
Be there to support them. Depending on their age, they might not want to ask for help because they want their independence while growing up. However, if they need you, let them know that you’re there if they need to talk, even if it’s clear they’re keeping their nervousness about grades, friendships, etc. private. Every year in school can be stressful, yet familial support can be the rock that keeps children in school. Keep that in mind, parents – listen to your children in order to be their guide!
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