Jamie Toomey, M.Ed., LMHC, and Kerri Friedlaender, M.S., BCBA, LABA
The team at A Healthy Lynnfield knows transitional seasons, like back to school, can be stressful times for both parents/caregivers and children. Part of the AHL mission is to improve the quality of life and overall health and well-being of Lynnfield residents, including mental health.
As summer comes to a close and the new school year approaches, students often experience a mix of excitement and anxiety. The transition from the relaxed, carefree days of summer to the structured routines of school can be daunting. Students may worry about new classes, new teachers, and increased academic demands. Social anxieties also arise as they navigate friendships and fit into the new school dynamic. These concerns can lead to stress, unease, and dysregulation, making the start of the school year a challenging period for many families.
Routine
Planning at home can significantly ease the transition and maintain harmony. Consider how you want your mornings, days, and weeks to go. Starting the new school year without a plan can lead to frustration for everyone involved. Communicating expectations and establishing routines with your children is crucial. Don’t overthink it — begin by writing it down, then break it down. Establish times, and then practice. Be realistic and allow room for flexibility. Start to slowly ease into the fall schedule before school starts. Familiarize your child with the routine in positive ways, always encourage their strengths, adjust where needed, and promote problem-solving strategies.
Visuals are a great tool, especially for younger children and children who may have difficulty communicating. A visual routine helps children comprehend expectations, make choices, foster independence, and promote inclusion. Creating a visual routine for different areas and activities in the home can be a fun family activity.
Familiarity
Take a walk or drive to your child’s school before school starts. A child who feels secure in their surroundings promotes self-esteem and independence. Identify which door your child will use to enter the school building. Practice having your child leave the car and walk to the door to build confidence. Discuss problem-solving strategies on how to navigate a new building and who to go to for help if needed.
Screen Time
During the summer months, electronic use in the home may be more relaxed. Gradually reducing your child’s screen time before the new school year begins is helpful. The reduced time helps students adjust to the demands of the school day and promote healthy sleep patterns. Limiting phone use might initially cause anxiety, as your child could experience feelings of isolation or fear of missing out (FOMO). Be patient and encourage open communication about your child’s feelings. Offer alternative activities, such as a family movie or game night, to help ease the transition.
Calming Tools
Routine, structure, and feeling secure in an environment are just a few skill sets to promote positive social emotional health and ease anxieties. Learning to manage emotions is critical for children, as emotional regulation significantly impacts their ability to learn and succeed academically. While we cannot always prevent the anxieties that come with starting a new school year, we can provide our children with the support and skills to manage these challenges. Establishing a routine, modeling desired behavior, and actively listening to your child are key strategies for supporting them through this transition.
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