During the past several weeks I've talked with many parents whose kids are excited about starting the new school year. Other parents have expressed concern about the anxiety their child is feeling about going back to school. If your student is stressed about going back to class, you may be able to help him deal with his feelings simply by talking about them.
COMMON CONCERNS
It can often be challenging to get our kids to talk to us about anything at all, let alone what's bothering them. When starting a conversation, it may be helpful for you to know that the most common back-to-school fears include:
- Being away from their families
- Not being able to make friends
- Being called on in class
- Changing for gym class
- Finding someone to eat lunch with
- Failing a difficult test or class
- Having a "mean" teacher
- Taking the school bus
- Being bullied or teased by other kids
Ask your child what she's concerned about. Just saying the words out loud can help ease her fears.
Acknowledge his fears, and don't laugh at them or dismiss them as being silly or childish. They feel very real to him, and any ridicule could make it difficult for him to confide in you in the future.
Encourage her to recall her favorite things about school and remind her about the friends she sees everyday.
Explain that many kids get nervous about going back to school and assure him that he'll get back into the routine before he knows it.
Make time every day to talk about her school day. Show interest in her classes, who her friends are, what subjects she enjoys (and the ones she doesn't), who she eats lunch with, etc.
RESOURCES
If your child's concerns are overwhelming and don't improve after the first couple weeks of school, it may be time to consider getting some help. Some resources include the guidance counselor at school; your child's pediatrician, who can refer you to a counselor or psychologist; or the minister at your place of worship.
KEEP TALKING
Once your child has gotten back into the routine and the school year is humming along, keep the lines of communication open. He will face new challenges throughout the year and will benefit from you being there to listen and offer advice and encouragement. With your help, your child will start and end this school year with confidence and enthusiasm.
Parents do make a difference!
by Dana Groves Reeves
