Tips for Heading Back to School as a Family 

It’s that time of year again! The kids are headed back to school and soon the year full of homework, projects, sports, and extracurricular activities will be in full swing! While some children look forward to going back to school, for others it can be a daunting time that can inspire some anxiety. As parents there are some things we can do to try and help make Back-To-School a fun time and ease the transition. 

 

Visit the New School or Classroom

Taking your child to visit their new school or classroom before the first day can significantly reduce anxiety. Attend any available orientations and take a tour of the school. A few days before classes begin, you can also bring your child to the school playground to play and get accustomed to the new environment.

Rehearse the New Routine

Many children feel nervous about new situations. Rehearsing the new routine can help ease these fears. Practice heading into the new situation by walking through what the first day will look like. This can include the route to school, finding their classroom, and meeting their teacher. You can even practice what getting ready in the morning looks like by having a practice morning a day or two before where you set the alarms for the before-school wakeup and run through getting dressed and out the door on time.

Communicate with Your Child

Remind your child that teachers understand students may feel nervous about the first day and will make an extra effort to ensure everyone feels comfortable. If your child seems anxious, ask them what they are worried about and help them come up with solutions to manage their concerns.

Highlight the Positives

Help your child look forward to the first day by pointing out the positive aspects of starting school. Talk about the excitement of seeing old friends and the opportunity to make new ones. Emphasizing the fun and social aspects can help shift their focus from fear to anticipation.

Arrange a Buddy System

It always helps to know a friend! If your school puts out class lists, you can try and arrange a playdate with someone in their class ahead of time so they know someone on the first day. Or,  find another child in the neighborhood with whom your child can walk to school or ride the bus. Having a friend to share the experience can make the transition less daunting.

Offer Extra Support on the First Day

If needed, drive your child or walk with them to school on the first day. Arrive early to help reduce unnecessary stress and give them time to settle in. Being there for extra support can provide reassurance and help your child start the day with confidence.

By taking these steps, you can help your child feel more at ease and excited about the new school year. With a little preparation and support, they’ll be ready to embrace the adventure ahead.