Make Back to School Less Stressful with These Tips
- First, ask your child how they feel about going back to school. Let them talk through their worries. Reassure them that things are going to be okay, but make sure not to dismiss their concerns. Say “If X happens, what will you do about it?” instead of just “It’ll be fine!” Go into detail. Talk through plans of action. It’s hard to remember things will be fine when you’re anxious and scared.
- Try role playing or create a social story. Social stories are strong visual guides to social interactions, new situations and intimidating behaviors. Go through their day and what they’re likely to be doing. Don’t forget to include whatever back to school steps they have to take, how to talk with new classmates and teachers, and what to expect in the classroom. Suggest things for them to say to their classmates (like what they did during the summer) and other ways to reach out and make new friends.
- Break in new shoes and clothes beforehand so there are no problems with negative sensory feedback. And don’t forget to include backpacks and lunchboxes in this test. Straps can be uncomfortable and itchy. Better to know beforehand if there is a problem with your child’s school supplies and clothes to limit the possibility of tantrums before school.
- It helps to create and stick to a routine. If your child knows what to expect before school, it will be a less stressful experience. For example: make a routine of bedtime, wake up time, breakfast, tooth brushing, hair brushing, getting dressed, putting on shoes/coats/backpacks, and getting out the door. It’s especially important to have a sleep routine since a well-rested child is one more well-equipped to face the school day.
- If you are able to, take your children to their school before the first day of class and help them find their classrooms, lunchrooms, gyms, and bathrooms so they know where to go and what to expect when school starts.
- Save time by getting clothes, school supplies, backpacks, and snacks ready the night before.
- Plan extra time in the morning so you’re not rushing.
- Get your children to bed early the night before so they will be well rested for the first day.
- Finally, let their teachers know if your child needs extra help or is prone to anxiety. Teachers are there to help and they will find it easier to relate to your child if they know what to expect.
Remember, the back-to-school season doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead.
Eyas Landing is a therapy clinic with a mission to provide evidence-based and family-centered therapy services for children, adolescents, and their families. The primary goal is to deliver relationship-based interventions within the most natural environments and to empower families to reach their full potential. To achieve this goal, our highly educated, compassionate staff dedicates time and expertise to create experiences that maximize therapeutic outcomes. The strength, determination, and perseverance of our clients are evident as they succeed in therapy, and ultimately in their daily lives.
Eyas Landing offers a wide range of comprehensive services including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, ABA Therapy, Social Work, Family Therapy, and Neuropsych testing. Services are provided throughout the Chicagoland area via Telehealth, In-Home, and in our state of the art clinic.
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