Heading back to school can be anxiety provoking for kids and teens no matter how long they have been at school. There are several reasons for this, one of which is change and uncertainty. We inherently dislike it when something is going to be unfamiliar. A new teacher, new classmates, a new classroom and a new year level. All of this brings different expectations which we can struggle to adjust to.
Generally speaking within the first 2 – 4 weeks, most children have adjusted to the new year at school which tells us that pre-school anxiety is a common experience for nearly all students. The way this manifests can look different for each child. Some children can internalise their anxiety and discomfort and so from the outside they look “fine”, however internally they may be struggling. Children who often internalise will complain of headaches, stomachaches, and other bothersome physical sensations. Other children can act out, which looks like tantrums and “melt-downs”. Managing this as parents can be tricky sometimes. To help manage these behaviours, it can be helpful to do the following:
1. Ease back into your routine. When we’re on holidays we can all be a bit out of sorts. Easing back into the routine is something that can be helpful. Start this a few days before the start of school if you can so that you and your family are going to bed and waking at the time you need to be. This will help prevent children and teenagers from being tired and grumpy, which in turn will make it more likely for them to feel prepared to manage their discomfort.
2. Stay organised. Try to organise school books, stationery, uniforms, lunchboxes etc well in advance so that your stress levels aren’t high. Children and teenagers can feed off our anxiety so the calmer you are the calmer your children will be.
3. Check In with your child. It’s always a good idea to check in with your child in the week leading up to school starting. To do this it can be helpful to ask them open ended questions about how they’re feeling about going back to school. While they’re talking it can be helpful to listen and validate how they’re feeling first before trying to problem solve their dilemma. Sometimes children and teens just want to share their worries and don’t always need the problem solved.
Sadly, for some children, the struggle is ongoing. Some children continue to struggle to adjust past the first month or so at school which means they will likely need extra support. This is where our team can help. Our team of seasoned clinician’s can help you and your child learn ways to manage anxiety and adjust to school. To set up an appointment give us a call on 9882-8874.