By now most students are settling back into a new school year routine.
Excitement about the possibilities of the school year can easily turn to anxiety for students overly concerned about the unknown or challenging circumstances. Remember: fear and excitement can also co-exist!
Here’s how to support your child through the back-to-school transition.
Urge Them Put Themselves Out There
Kids are just like adults: some are introverts; others extroverts. We’ve all been that lone kid sitting alone in the cafeteria. Help your student thrive by urging them to find their community. Encourage them to develop relationships at their own pace with kids who have similar interests. Help them find clubs and activities that create balance in their lives. That’s where they’ll make new friendships and feel a sense of belonging.
Help Them Keep on Track
Many kids enjoy a low-key summer with no routine. Going back to school is an adjustment for them. It takes self-discipline—and perhaps an occasional nudge from a parent or guardian—to “hit the ground running“ in the new school year and get into their new routine.
Falling behind in class work can have a domino effect for the duration of the school year. Work with your child to set realistic goals, encourage them to try new things, be honest with them when they fail, and offer a pep talk that downplays the failure and helps build self-esteem.
Know Your Resources
Sometimes our students need additional help. Familiarize yourself with resources offered in your student’s school or community. These can range from counseling services to enrichment programs to services to teach youth about violence and substance use prevention.
Be There
No matter how much your child claims they want independence and autonomy, you continue to play a critically important part in their lives.
Throughout the school year, check in with your child regularly and be curious but not intrusive about their lives. Make these conversations a natural part of your family routine and make sure everyone participates.
We hope that they—and you—have a great school year!
LSSI offers mental health services throughout Chicago. Please call LSSI Connect at 833.610.5774 to learn more. In Carroll, Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties, LSSI offers violence and substance use prevention services for grammar and high school students. Please call 815.284.7796 to learn more.
