Back to School
Our counselors in Spanish Fork know that going back to school after a summer break can be a challenging time. It often can be stressful for both parents and children. We wanted to offer some tips on how to make this transition not only less stressful, but also one where the whole household can feel some excitement and added connection.
Celebrate the new school year! Create traditions for this time of year. Examples could include choosing a favorite family meal or restaurant the night before the first day, or having a special after school snack or “date” with mom or dad to process the day. If available, take a visit to the school prior to the first day so kids can familiarize themselves with their schedule, location of classrooms, and even meet their teacher. A lot of the anxiousness kids feel can be alleviated if they know exactly what to expect that first day, and to ring it in with something celebratory.
Establish a more regular bedtime and wakeup schedule that allows kids to get out the door in time for school. Being in a rush in the morning is not a good way to start the day – for you or your child. Organize school supplies, including backpacks, binders, and lunchboxes. This new routine can even be “practiced” a few days before the first day of school so kids feel confident they can stick to it. And don’t forget to schedule in some downtime!
Remind yourself that resources are everywhere to realize success. Get involved in Parent Teacher Organizations at the School. Know your neighbors and what kids in the neighborhood are attending the same school – carpools can be a real lifesaver, and the old adage “it takes a village” is still true today. Remember, it’s totally normal to find yourself with some back to school jitters. Chances are, if you’re nervous, so is someone else – and they are more worried about their own outfit or zit (gasp!) than yours. Be a friend, make a friend.
Creating a family motto or theme for the new school year can be a great opportunity to sit down and discuss goals for the new year. Having a physical reminder of this theme displayed around the home, or even near the door so everyone sees it as they enter and leave can help cement this theme and have it be a recurring thought throughout the day. If it’s easy and catchy for the kids, they can recite it in their heads as they face each day’s highs and lows. This year we especially like “I’ve got this – no cap!”
Communication – both talking and listening – can be a crucial way to help alleviate the stressors of everyday life. Show genuine interest by letting your child know that you want to hear about their day – the good, the bad, the ugly, and everything in between. Your child will be more apt to share if they know that you are making the time for these conversations to take place.
Good luck everyone! And, as always, if the stressors of this time of year feel unmanageable, our counselors in Spanish Fork are here to help. Give us a call at 801-224-2313 and we will assist you.
