As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help them feel safe, secure, and supported. In this blog post, I'll share my personal journey and the strategies that helped my child overcome their back-to-school fears.

Listen and validate your child's concerns

When your child is feeling anxious about returning to school, it is essential to support them with understanding and kindness. The first step is to listen carefully to their concerns. Providing a safe space for him to express his feelings without minimizing his emotions is crucial. Show them that their concerns are normal and understandable, and validate their feelings rather than ignoring them.

Discuss changes and expectations

Discuss the changes and expectations of going back to school. Talking about specific aspects of school, such as new subjects or changes in the schedule, can help reduce anxiety by giving your child a clear view of what they can expect. If he understands the changes to come, it can alleviate his fears of the unknown.

Establish a stable routine

Establishing a stable routine before the start of the school year is also another effective strategy. Regular bedtimes and wake-up times create a predictable environment that can provide your child with a sense of security. A well-established routine will also help prepare his body and mind to return to a school rhythm.

Familiarize your child with the school environment

To prepare your child gradually, you can help him become familiar with his school environment. To do this, a visit to the school to explore the premises and meet the teachers, if possible, can reduce anxiety by making school less intimidating. Practice school situations at home to help your child prepare.

Highlight the positive aspects of school

Talk about the enjoyable aspects of school, such as fun activities, new friends to meet, and interesting subjects to explore. All this to divert attention from fears and promote an optimistic outlook.

Create a reassuring reparation ritual

Creating a reassuring separation ritual can help if your child has difficulty separating from you in the morning. A special, special hug, a word of encouragement or a small comforting object that he can take with him can make separations less stressful and more predictable.

Encourage social interactions before school starts

Promoting social interactions before the start of the school year is also a good idea. Reconnecting with friends or participating in social activities can strengthen feelings of connection and support, which can ease anxiety. 

Lead by example

Lead by example by remaining calm and positive in stressful situations. Your own attitude can have a significant impact on your child's emotions. By being a model of stress management, you offer a concrete example to your child.

Seek professional help if needed

If your child's anxiety persists or seems severe, it may be necessary to consult a professional, such as a school psychologist or specialist therapist. These experts can offer tailored support and additional strategies to help your child overcome their worries.

By implementing these approaches, you can help your child approach the start of school with more confidence and less anxiety, providing the support needed for a smooth transition.