Returning to school after a long summer break can be a tough time for a child’s psyche: in addition to anxiety, a child may also suffer from nervousness and shyness. However, adults can help ensure a smoother start to the first term, says Elizabeth Englander, a professor of psychology at Bridgewater State University. In an interview with The Conversation, the expert gave some advice to parents.
The start of a new school year is one of the times of the year that children look forward to the most and which can bring a mixture of feelings that can range from excitement or joy to fear or anxiety.
Millions of students in the United States are preparing to return to in-person classes after many had to complete their studies virtually or semi-in-person due to the pandemic. A factor that undoubtedly adds some additional expectation for everyone at home.
How to reduce the anxiety that parents also feel?
“Going back to school is a very stressful and anxiety-provoking experience, and this year it may be even more so, so it’s very important for parents to start figuring out for themselves what is causing them stress or anxiety,” the New York City-based expert shares.
After parents have discovered the reasons for their concern, Caraballo recommends engaging in self-care activities that help reduce stress levels, such as practicing yoga, exercising, reading, or simply listening to music. “This helps parents a lot, but it also helps parents model for their children how to deal with anxiety,” she adds.
How to help children cope with the stress of starting school?
“ The most important thing is that we should talk to our children in a way that is age-appropriate. (We should) seek information from trusted sources… make sure that children have information, but not too much,” she shares, adding that it is vital to clarify their doubts and help them correct thoughts or beliefs based on incorrect information.
How to support teenagers?
Good communication will always be the best ally for parents to help their children in any situation and, according to the renowned psychiatrist, communication will play a decisive role in this new school year.
“For some children, the situation we have been in has been like a vacation from the stress of going to school. For many children, going to school is very stressful. For others, it has been very difficult not to socialize with their friends,” explains Caraballo.
One of Dr. Caraballo’s recommendations is that children can meet up with their school friends a few days before the start of classes, to reduce the anxiety of meeting them again.
Another suggestion is to set academic goals for your children that are appropriate to the current situation. Of course, if you feel that you need expert advice, you should not be afraid to seek help.
Encourage activities that reduce anxiety,” Englander recommends first. As summer winds down, focus on free-form outdoor play. Being outside and not having to deal with strict rules can help kids cope with negative emotions and reduce anxiety. Reducing screen time is also a big part of the preparation.