Backpacks are ready, classes are assigned and Arizona parents are breathing a sigh of relief. Arizona schoolchildren have begun to go back to school.
This is an exciting time for students across the state. Back-to-school season is a chance for a fresh start and new friends; kids grow so much in the course of a single school year.
Not every child is excited, though. First-day jitters are normal — among both students and parents! New friends and old adversaries … picking a seat in the cafeteria … academic uncertainty — there’s no shortage of anxiety triggers.
These don’t need to be worry-filled weeks, though.
Try these tips to help your family ease the back-to-school nerves and transition smoothly from summer to the classroom.
Beat the 'Back-to-School Blues'
Encourage your child to talk about their back-to-school fears. Acknowledge their concerns but encourage positive thinking and coping mechanisms. Often, simply talking through these issues with a trusted adult can help a child alleviate their anxiety.
Set a solid morning routine
The lazy days of summer are coming to an end. During the days that remain, help your child establish a school-ready routine by going to bed and waking up at a consistent time. Activities like making the bed and eating a healthy breakfast are also good habits to encourage. During the evening before the first day of school, remember to organize school supplies and lay out clothes.
Plan a safe route to school
For younger students, it’s especially important to plan their safe route to school or the bus stop. Highlight the importance of traffic safety, crosswalks, and being aware of their surroundings.
New year, new school
Starting at a new school can be one of the most stressful experiences for any student. Ease the transition by talking with your child about their concerns, visit the school in advance to help familiarize them with their new surroundings and remind them there will be plenty of other students in the same situation. They’ll be making new friends in no time.
Balance extracurricular activities with academics
Extracurricular activities like sports, music and more are a great way to take a child’s mind off their worries. Work with them to ensure a healthy balance with ample time for homework, after-school activities and free time to just be a kid.
Communicate with teachers and school staff
Parent-teacher relationships are one of the keys to your child’s educational success. If you think your child’s back-to-school anxiety may be more than just a passing concern, feel free to notify their teacher and/or school counselor so they are aware.
Children are incredibly resilient. With these tips, I know that your family will be ready for a terrific school year. Good luck!
Mia Vega is the Superintendent for Legacy Traditional School’s Arizona campuses.
