Six back to school tips to set your kids up for success

As summer days draw to a close,  a new school year can bring mixed emotions for both children and parents. Amanda Carter, Program Manager of JFS’s KidSuccess program, shares essential advice to help families navigate this transition with ease. 

1. Foster Open Communication 

Children may exhibit behavioral changes, such as increased tearfulness, clinginess, or irritability when anticipating stressful events like returning to school. Caregivers should observe these changes with a nurturing and non-judgmental approach. 

If you notice such shifts, openly acknowledging them can be helpful. Phrases like, “I've noticed you're experiencing some intense emotions lately. Would you like to talk about what's on your mind?” can create a safe space for your child to express their feelings. 

For children who are less verbal, creative activities like drawing or playing can offer an alternative means of self-expression. These activities can help children explore their emotions indirectly, fostering a better understanding of their concerns. 

Creating an environment that encourages open communication and emotional exploration is key. By supportively addressing your child's behavioral changes, you can help them manage their anxieties about returning to school and equip them with effective emotional tools. 

2. Practice Active Listening 

When preparing a child for the return to school, it’s natural to want to solve their problems immediately. However, it’s important to resist this urge and allow your child to lead the conversation. 

To ensure your child feels heard, reflect on their statements. For example, saying, “I understand that you're feeling sad about summer ending,” validates their emotions and shows that you actively listen. 

3. Validate Their Feelings 

Acknowledge that strong emotions and challenges are a normal part of growing up. Validating your child's feelings by echoing their words, such as saying, “Yes, going back to school can be difficult,” normalizes their experience and shows understanding and support. 

Learning to handle intense emotions is a developmental skill. By validating your child's feelings, you reassure them of your support, fostering their emotional growth and building a foundation of trust. 

4. Model Healthy Stress Management 

Children learn how to handle stress by observing adults. Caregivers should model healthy stress management whenever possible. Admitting when you are overwhelmed and expressing your emotions healthily can be powerful. For instance, saying, “I'm feeling overwhelmed right now. I'm going to take three deep breaths to calm down,” shows children that intense emotions are temporary and manageable. 

Sharing your experiences and demonstrating coping strategies empowers children to handle stress. This approach normalizes big feelings and provides practical examples for managing them, equipping children with valuable tools for their emotional well-being. 

5. Discuss Screen Time Expectations 

As the school year approaches, it’s essential to address changes in screen time usage. During summer, children often have more flexibility with screen time, but the school year demands a different routine. Discussing and setting clear expectations around screen time can ease this transition. 

Begin by reviewing your child’s current screen time habits. Open a dialogue about the need for changes, emphasizing the importance of balancing screen time with school responsibilities, physical activities, and social interactions. You might say, “We’ve enjoyed more screen time over the summer, but with school starting, we need to set some new rules to help you stay focused and healthy.” 

Collaboratively establish a screen time schedule that aligns with school routines. Include specific times for educational use, recreational activities, and breaks. Encourage your child to participate in setting these rules, as their involvement can foster a sense of ownership and compliance. 

Explain the reasoning behind these changes, such as improved concentration, better sleep, and overall well-being. Reinforce that screen time is not inherently bad but needs to be managed appropriately during the school year. 

By discussing and agreeing on screen time expectations, you help your child understand the importance of self-regulation and responsibility. This proactive approach can reduce potential conflicts and support a smoother transition back to school. 

6. Allow Time for Adjustment 

After establishing a school routine, give yourself and your child time to adjust. Expect challenges along the way and understand that stress levels may fluctuate. Show compassion and understanding, even if it seems like your child has adapted. 

Child development is not always linear; there may be moments of regression or setbacks. Embrace these as part of the process and focus on celebrating small positive changes and moments with your child. Acknowledging and appreciating progress, no matter how small, creates a supportive and encouraging environment. 

Be patient with yourself and your child. Allow room for growth, learning, and occasional struggles. By embracing the journey with grace, you foster resilience, strengthen your bond, and create a nurturing atmosphere for your child's ongoing development. 

By applying these strategies, caregivers can support their children through the transition back to school, helping them manage their anxieties and thrive in the new academic year.