Going back to school or starting a new school can be tough for some children. If your child (or you!) are experiencing some anxiety about starting school, try these tips listed below:
Make and practice a goodbye ritual
Plan how you and your child will say goodbye. Maybe it’s a big hug followed by a high five. Maybe it’s a quick secret handshake. Maybe it’s a positive affirmation or a silly quote. Practice your goodbye ritual for brief separations, like when your child spends the afternoon with a friend or family member, so the ritual is familiar when it’s time for school.
Do a practice run
Come to open house so your child can meet his/her teacher, see the classroom, and practice walking from the door they will be entering to their homeroom. Let them try to lead the way and show you where to go! They can even practice asking someone for help if they need it. At another time you can drive through the carpool or bus lane to practice your goodbye ritual and getting out of the car and walking to the door.
Stick to a routine
If you haven’t already, start to adjust bedtime and morning routines to match what they will be during the school year. During the year, plan to have consistent and regular morning and evening routines to cut down on stress and rushing. Making sure your child is on time to school every day goes a long way in helping them come into the building in a calm and comfortable way. If their class is already involved in their day when your child gets here, it adds anxiety for them. Remind your child of their afternoon schedule as well. Let them know how they will be getting home, when you will see them again, etc.
Show excitement
When you talk about school and the changes ahead, show your child that you are excited! Instead of saying, “I’m really going to miss you,” say things like “I can’t wait to hear about the books you will be reading or what the playground will be like.”
Validate feelings
If your child expresses feelings of worry or sadness, let them know it is okay and totally normal to feel that way. Talk about some things that might help when they feel that way. They can talk to an adult at school if they are sad. They can remember a time when they did something new and ended up really enjoying it. They can practice taking deep breaths when they feel worried.
Model a positive goodbye
Children get their cues from adults around them. When it is time to say goodbye, do your goodbye ritual and then model a positive goodbye. Give your child a big smile with a confident posture, tell them you can’t wait to hear about their day, and head on your way! Your child will pick up on your positive energy!
Contact the counselor
If you feel worried about your child after you drop off or have some concerns that you would like to discuss, call Renee Corley, our school counselor at 470-254-9872. And, remember, if it is difficult the first few days of school, that doesn’t mean it will be that way all year! It is normal for there to be a little adjustment time for children (and parents!). Be patient and know that your consistency and calmness will pay off in helping your child feel secure and safe while they are away from you. (adapted from Counselor Keri)