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- 🌱🖍️Managing Emotions for Back to School🚌🌱
🌱🖍️Managing Emotions for Back to School🚌🌱
Melissa Moore
July 29, 2024
Hello Sproutly Families,
As the back-to-school season begins, many families experience a mix of excitement and adjustment. We understand that all the changes with back to school can cause anxiety to run high for children and parents alike. Starting or returning to school brings a whirlwind of emotions, and it’s crucial to equip our children with the tools they need to manage these feelings effectively.
With everything going on at this time we don’t want to overlook the challenges younger siblings experience as their older siblings embark on their new school adventures. Younger children at home may face a different set of emotions. They might feel lonely, left out, or even anxious about the changes in their daily routine.
At Sproutly, we understand that one change in the family affects everyone in the family. We hope to help you navigate this time of year and all the changes that come with it. Let’s sprout emotional resilience and make this school transition smoother and happier for our children!
In this newsletter, you will get....
Feature Articles
Photo by Artem Podrez on Pexels
In Helping Children Cope with Back-To-School Anxiety, the Fit Team explains how anxiety commonly shows up in children during back to school. They also highlight some well-being tips to start the school year on the right foot.
Kathy Sisson gives some ideas on how to help younger children manage their feelings as their older siblings head to school in How to Ease Sibling Separation Anxiety When Your Oldest Goes Off to School.
Parenting Tips
Photo by Caleb Oquendo on Pexels
Acknowledge and Validate Their Feelings
Starting or returning to school can bring a mix of emotions for children, including excitement, anxiety, and even fear. It's important to let your child know that it's okay to feel these emotions. Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings by saying things like, "I understand you're feeling nervous about starting school. It's perfectly normal to feel this way."
Establish a Routine
Consistency can provide a sense of security and help reduce anxiety. Establish a daily routine leading up to the first day of school. Include specific times for waking up, meals, homework, play, and bedtime. Practicing this routine a week or two before school starts can help ease the transition.
Visit the School Together
If possible, take a trip to the school before it starts. Show your child their classroom, playground, and other important areas. Meeting their teacher beforehand, if possible, can also help your child feel more comfortable and familiar with their new environment.
Create a Morning Checklist
A morning checklist can help your child feel prepared and reduce last-minute stress. Include items like packing their backpack, laying out clothes, and having a nutritious breakfast. A visual checklist can be especially helpful for younger children.
Encourage Open Communication
Encourage your child to talk about their day, share their experiences, and express their feelings. Ask open-ended questions such as, "What was the best part of your day?" or "Did anything make you feel worried today?" This helps your child feel heard and supported.
Practice Relaxation and Positive Self Talk
Teach your child simple relaxation techniques to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization. Encourage your child to use positive self-talk to boost their confidence. Phrases like, "I can do this," "I am brave," and "I am ready to learn" can help them feel more capable and less anxious.
Set Realistic Expectations
Help your child understand what to expect at school and set realistic goals. Discussing the daily schedule, homework expectations, and the importance of trying their best can help alleviate fears of the unknown.
Be Patient and Supportive
Adjusting to school takes time. Be patient with your child and provide plenty of encouragement. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and reassure them that they have your support every step of the way.
Stay Tuned…
Photo by Oleksandr P on Pexels
We are mixing things up with our newsletter. This is just a portion of the information we want to share with you. Look for a second email later this week with more information and a fun activity to do with your children to help them manage their feelings as they prepare to go to school or as they watch their older siblings go to school.
Warm Regards,
Millie & Melissa
The Sproutly Team
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