It’s common for children to experience a mix of emotions as they prepare to return to school after the holidays. While some kids eagerly anticipate the new school year, others may feel apprehensive or even quite anxious about those initial days.
These feelings of worry might manifest as difficulty falling asleep, challenging behaviour, or bouts of tearfulness. Here are some straightforward strategies to assist you in supporting your children during this transition:

1. Engage in School Playground Playtime:

Spending time with your children in the school playground provides an opportunity for open conversation about their concerns. You can discuss potential worries and offer strategies to handle them. If you spot other children at the playground, it’s a bonus, as this may help alleviate concerns about making friends.

2. Familiarise with the Teacher/s:

For children entering school for the first time or transitioning to a new class, building a connection with their teacher is crucial. Obtain a photo of your child’s teacher from the school’s website or contact the school office for one. Display this photo on the fridge and speak positively about the teacher. Ensuring that your child perceives the teacher as a supportive figure can make the school year more manageable.

3. Practice Saying Goodbye:

Saying goodbye to parents can be a significant challenge for many children. Develop a routine for saying goodbye that both you and your child are comfortable with. Consider inventing a special saying or rhyme to make the process more fun and reassuring.

4. Reinstate Bedtime Routines:

In the days leading up to school’s resumption, reestablish consistent bedtime routines. This will help your child transition into the familiar rhythm of school nights.

5. Stationery Selection:

Allow your child to choose their own school supplies whenever possible. This gives them a sense of ownership and control over their preparations.

6. Pre-emptive Discussion:

On the day before school starts, have a comprehensive discussion about what will happen the next day, from the moment they wake up. Address the possibility of their friends feeling nervous but excited as well. Reiterate how the goodbye routine will unfold and reassure them that you’ll be just fine.

7. Expect Post-School Meltdowns:

Understand that starting something new can be exhausting for children, and this can manifest in challenging behaviour at home during the late afternoon and evening. Be prepared for some emotional moments; you won’t be alone in experiencing them.

8. Self-Care:

Recognise that you may also experience mixed emotions when you drop your child off at school. Trust in the preparations you’ve made for your child, believe in the school staff’s dedication to your child’s well-being, and have faith in your child’s inner strength to navigate the school day.

9. Enhance Resilience and Self-Esteem:

Teach your children positive well-being skills to ease transitions. Explore activities and resources at home, which offer simple exercises to help children manage emotions, build strong friendships, boost self-esteem, and enhance overall well-being.
Supporting your child’s emotional needs during this time is essential for a smooth back-to-school transition.