Summers tend to lack routine and for some kids they may lack the same level of socialization. Going back to school is an adjustment for adolescents. Here’s how to support your student through the transition.
Help your student thrive by helping them find their community. Encourage them to develop relationships with kids with similar interests. Help them find clubs and activities that align with their goals and spark joy in them.
Self-esteem is key in adolescence. Building self-esteem goes beyond simply praising a child when they do something good. Setting realistic goals for them, encouraging them to try new things, being honest with them when they fail, and being ready with a pep talk are all ways to build self-esteem. Low self-esteem and isolation are both risk factors for mental health issues.
Fear of school can develop simply from not going over the summer. Make sure to be attentive to changes in sleep or appetite that may indicate your child is nervous. Fear and excitement can also co-exist!
Desired behaviors may not come easily when you get back to school. If your student isn’t doing their homework, is acting out, is picking fights, or otherwise just not being the kid from last school year avoid nagging, threats and bribery. Instead try to get to the root of this new behavior. Ask questions and see if there may be a reason for the changes you are seeing.
Make your child’s mental health a priority. The same way you would check in on a child’s physical health make sure to stay on top of their mental health by being conscious of changes to their mood. If you are concerned seek an assessment for your child from your doctor or mental health professional.
If you are looking for mental health services in Chicago call LSSI Connect at 833.610.5774.
