Supporting a child who is feeling anxious about going back to school requires a combination of understanding, communication, and patience. Here are some strategies that may help you support your child:

Open Communication: Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns. Ask open-ended questions and actively listen to what they have to say. Let them know that their feelings are valid and that you are there to support them.

Acknowledge Their Feelings: Validate your child's emotions and let them know that it's okay to feel anxious. Reassure them that many kids feel the same way before going back to school after a break.

Provide Information: Sometimes, anxiety can be alleviated by knowing what to expect. Talk to your child about their school schedule, their teachers, and any changes that might have occurred since they were last in school.

Visit the School: If possible, visit the school with your child before the first day. Familiarity can help ease anxiety. Show them their classroom and any other areas they might be concerned about.

Create a Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes regular sleep, meals, and time for relaxation. Predictability can help reduce anxiety.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Teach your child simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualisation, or progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques can help them manage their anxiety when they're feeling overwhelmed.

Positive Thinking: Encourage your child to focus on positive thoughts and outcomes. Help them reframe their worries into more positive perspectives.

Meet the Teacher: If possible, arrange a meeting with their new teacher before school starts. This can help your child build a connection and feel more at ease on the first day.

Connect with Friends: Help your child reconnect with their school friends. Knowing that they'll have familiar faces around can make the transition back to school less intimidating.

Set Realistic Expectations: Remind your child that it's okay not to be perfect and that making mistakes is a part of learning and growing. Set achievable goals and celebrate their successes.

Stay Calm Yourself: Children often pick up on their parents' emotions. If you're feeling anxious, it's important to manage your own stress so that you can provide a calm and reassuring environment for your child.

Problem-Solving: If your child has specific concerns, work together to come up with solutions. For example, if they're worried about getting lost, you can help them plan out their route to different classes.

Stay Positive: Share your own positive experiences about school and remind them of the fun and exciting aspects of learning, seeing friends, and participating in activities.

Remember that each child is unique, so the strategies that work best will vary. Be patient and continue to provide a supportive and understanding environment for your child as they navigate their anxiety about going back to school.

If your child's anxiety seems to be escalating or interfering significantly with their daily life, consider consulting a mental health professional, such as a school counsellor or therapist, for further guidance and support.

At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we have a team of professional, Qualified and Experienced Therapists who work with children and teens with back to school anxiety. We alos support parents who may be struggling to find ways to support their anxious child. Check out our services and team of therapits here:

https://www.northstartherapy.ie/