The back-to-school season is an exciting time filled with new opportunities, friendships, and the chance to learn and grow. But it’s also a period of significant change, which can create stress and anxiety for students and parents alike. At Lokiten Behavioral Health, we understand how important it is to support mental health during this transition.
Here are some practical ways families can navigate the return to school more smoothly:
- Start Preparing Early: About two weeks before school begins, adjust bedtime and wake-up schedules gradually. This helps ease the shock of early mornings and long school days.
- Plan Calm Mornings: Reduce stress by preparing clothes, lunches, and backpacks the night before. A calmer morning routine can help children feel more secure and ready for the day.
- Talk Openly About Feelings: Ask children how they feel about returning to school. Listen carefully and validate their emotions, whether they’re excited, nervous, or both. Let them know it’s normal to have mixed feelings.
- Visit the School if Possible: For younger students or those entering new schools, visiting the campus ahead of time can help ease anxiety. Walking through hallways, seeing classrooms, and meeting teachers can make the first day less intimidating.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Changes in mood, appetite, sleep, or behavior can be signs of anxiety, depression, or other challenges. Check in regularly with your child to ensure they’re coping well.
- Model Healthy Coping Skills: Children learn how to handle stress by watching the adults around them. Show them healthy strategies like deep breathing, talking through problems, or taking breaks when feeling overwhelmed.
- Limit Overscheduling: Extracurricular activities are wonderful, but too many commitments can cause stress and burnout. Help your child choose activities they truly enjoy and allow downtime for rest.
- Know When to Seek Professional Help: If worries persist or begin to interfere with daily life, professional support can make a big difference. Therapy can help children and teens build resilience, manage stress, and feel more confident in facing new challenges.
The back-to-school season is more than just buying supplies and new clothes, it’s also about emotional readiness. With preparation, support, and open communication, families can help children feel secure and confident as they step into a new school year. Lokiten Behavioral Health is here to support students and families in building the tools they need for emotional well-being and academic success.
