Coastal CT Counseling: Coping with Back-to-School Anxiety

The summer is often a chance for children to unwind from the stress of the previous school year.  The weather is nice, the schedules are less hectic and they have time to explore their interests and see their friends. For most children, the beginning of the school year is an exciting time, full of possibilities. Each new school year entails new teachers, new classmates, new experiences...but all this newness brings uncertainty, which means that almost every child will feel at least a little back-to-school anxiety. As September approaches some children need help coping with starting a new school year. Here are some tips from Coastal Connecticut Counseling to ease the transition.

Look after the basics. Nobody copes well when they are tired or hungry or rushing around on the morning of the first day of school. Anxious children often forget to eat or don't get enough sleep and feel like they are forgetting things before leaving the house. Make sure you're back in the regular morning and bedtime routines so that life is more predictable and planned. 

Acknowledge your child's feelings and encourage them to share them with you. Tell your child that it is normal to have concerns. Ask your child what is making him or her worried. Before and during the first few weeks of school, set up a regular time and place to talk. Focus on problem-solving and planning rather than just "don't worry!" or "Everything will be fine!” Instead, encourage your child to think of ways to solve his or her problem. For example, “If (the worst) happens, what could you do?” or “Let’s think of some ways you could handle that situation.” 

Set positive but realistic expectations. Focus on the positive aspects. Ask them about the three most exciting things on their first day, redirecting them away from worries and towards positive events that occurred. Setting the expectation that they go to school daily, regardless of how anxious they are rules out the battle of staying home because it's simply not an option. 

Pay attention to your own behavior. Starting a new school year can be anxiety-provoking for parents too. Children take cues from their parents, so the more confidence and comfort you can model, the more your child will understand there is no reason to be afraid. Be supportive yet firm. When saying goodbye in the morning, say it cheerfully - once - and then send them on their way. 

Please reach out with any concerns or issues you might have with yourself or your children. 

Coastal Connecticut Counseling

49 John Street, Southport, CT

203-307-3030

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Submitted by Fairfield, CT

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