Back To School: How To Calm Your Child’s Nerves
Posted: Thursday, July 31, 2008
by Stephany Springer
It is getting to be that time of the year again when school starts back up at full strength. For those just starting school, it can be a very nervous, overwhelming time.
It is important, as parents, to help the transition back to school. Parents should concentrate on the weeks leading up to school to make your child more comfortable with school. Here are some simple steps to ease back to school nerves.
Most schools have a meet the teacher day. Call your school and find out if it offers this day. If it does not, schedule a time to bring your child in to the school to meet their teacher before the first day. It will give them the opportunity to see their classroom and seat beforehand. It also gives them the chance to be comfortable and know their teacher before the first day. It is hard with all the formalities on the first day to really get to know each other on a personal level, this provides that opportunity for your child.
Set Routine
Kids are creatures of habit and routines enable them to be the most prepared. Start a few weeks before school, reinstating a routine for your child. Have bedtime schedules, wake-up schedules and discuss the routine of getting out the door on time. This is important because that first day, you really do not need the extra stress on your child of making it on time.
Appearance
I know those with limited resources dread being told to shop for back to school. However, the majority of kids say they stress about going back to school because of their appearance. It is important to let them start with confidence. Be sure to schedule the hair appointments, dental appointments and have them looking their best that first day. It will give them an extra boost of confidence.
Read
Kids worry about how they will do work, how everything will go, etc. It is just like you with the unknown. Therefore, the more of the unknown you can make known, it will calm their nerves. There are a ton of books available that talks about what school is like. This is a great opportunity for bonding as well. Nothing is more sweet than cuddling up with a good book. It can spur great conversations about what school we be like and what they can expect. Check out your local library or talk to the librarian about what she suggests.
Make the morning special
Plan ahead so that the morning is stress-free. Have film in the camera so you can document the new year in film. Plan a nutritious special breakfast that your kid will love. Don't be upset if they are too nervous to eat, but try to get some milk down at least. It is ok to walk them in to class the first day, but do not make it a habit for every day. It is important the first year that your child learns independence. I know you do not realize it now, but walking them in every day for their entire school career will hurt more than help. It is important to let them be successful at these little things early.
Pack a note
If your child is packing their lunch, pack a note of love. It will remind them during the day that they are loved. Kids have a hard time making friends sometimes. Even if they don't, it is essential to feel loved. They love the fact that you took the time to pay attention to them even though you are apart. If they are not packing their lunch, put it in their backpack. They will see it before the end of the day.
Take their mind off the nerves
If you know your child is stressing, plan a day before school starts doing something they love. If they are into music, blare the music and dance. If they like sports, visit the park and play a family game. Just do whatever it takes to get out some of that stress and burn that useless energy.
Enjoy this time of transition. Make sure you show support and love. School can be hard, but it is just the next step in their life. Show them you love them and be there for them. Listen to your child and look for clues into what they are feeling and then be there for them.
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