August has become synonymous with Back to School preparation. Stores are full of new clothes and supplies, commercials of happy kids with backpacks are bountiful, and expectations–and anxiety–are high. When preparing your child for going back to school, keep these tips in mind to help with the anxiety they may be feeling.
Let your child know that their anxiety is normal and valid. Going into a new classroom with new teachers and classmates can be overwhelming.
Show and express empathy regarding their anxiety.
Encourage them to share their feelings, thoughts, and concerns in any way that will be most comfortable to them. They can do this through talking, coloring, drawing, using stuffed animals or dolls, writing, or a number of other creative avenues.
Help them to identify and voice what they are worried about. Is it not being with you? The uncertainty of a new teacher? Not knowing their classmates? Encouraging them to voice their concerns can help them to recognize that these are valid.
Engage in a brainstorming session for how to cope with the situations they identify, such as how to make friends or going to an open house night to meet the teacher.
Identify and practice age-appropriate skills that will help them regulate their emotions, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or journaling.
Remind them how they have been successful with new endeavors in the past and how well they did.
Though it can be difficult to watch your child struggle with anxiety, remember that it is a common response to change. You may see symptoms like increasing tantrums or difficulty getting along with others, attempts to avoid school, and complaints of illness or difficulty sleeping. Should these symptoms persist or increase after school begins, talk to your child’s teacher(s) and their school counselor, all of whom will have excellent resources to help with supporting your child. You can also reach out to us at Favored Wellness Counseling, as many of our clinicians have experience working with children that experience anxiety.
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