6 Tips to Tackle Going Back to School
With the summer holidays over it’s time for your child to head back to school. While it’s an exciting time for some kids, it can also bring on feelings of anxiety, fatigue, and uncertainty. Whether it’s adjusting to new routines, meeting a new teacher, or re-establishing friendships, the transition can be overwhelming for both kids and parents. Fortunately, there are ways to make the shift smoother and set your child up for a successful year ahead.
1. Start Slowly with Routines
Routines help kids to know what to expect, so a few days before school starts, it’s a good idea to start with an earlier bedtime and reintroduce morning routines. A gradual shift from the laid-back holiday days to a more structured school routine can help to reduce any shock on the first day back.
2. Talk About Their Feelings
Take the time to sit down and talk to your child about how they’re feeling about the new school year. Maybe they’re anxious about a new teacher or nervous about seeing friends again. It’s important to validate their emotions and reassure them that feeling nervous is completely normal.
3. Organise School Supplies Together
Involve your child in getting their school uniform, stationery, lunch box and bag ready. This gives them a sense of responsibility and excitement for the year ahead. Plus, having everything prepared the night before reduces stress on the first morning.
4. Encourage Healthy Habits
Sometimes over the holidays we eat more takeaway or let our sports/play slip. Help your child ease back into healthy habits by encouraging regular meals, hydration, and plenty of physical activity. Exercise helps boost mood and energy, which will come in handy during the adjustment period.
5. Manage Tiredness with Rest
After weeks of late nights and no early mornings, returning to school can be a real energy drain. Expect your child to be tired for the first few weeks. Ensure your child gets plenty of rest in the days leading up to school and prioritise quiet time after school to recharge.
6. Minimise Screen Time
Often over the holidays we give our kids more screen time, so minimising this is important for promoting healthier habits, better sleep, and stronger social connections. Set time limits and stick to them.
With these tips, your child can jump into the school year like a pro and be ready to crush it from day one. If you or your child need a little help with managing the return to school, please reach out to our friendly reception team on 0477 798 932 and make an appointment!
Jacki Noney is a Provisional Psychologist at Provisional Psychology.