Coming back to school or beginning at a new school can be an exciting but stressful time for some of our young people. These feelings are normal, especially as children get ready to tackle all the new things that a new year and class bring.

Some practical ways to help kids get back into routine if they’re feeling a bit overwhelmed include:

1. Set up for success. Set out uniforms and anything they need the night before during the first few weeks. Be clear on routines and be clear on any changes that may come up. Visuals, check-lists and social stories/picture books can be helpful for kids who need more visual reminders as well and ongoing chats or role plays about new experiences can also be helpful.
2. Troubleshoot any real-world anxieties. Talk through any worries that may come up and plan for how to cope. This may be a special item of yours in a pencil case/backpack, a breathing technique, a coping statement, etc. Rewards at the end of the day can also make tackling a big day a bit easier. Reminding children of past challenges they have overcome and your belief in them can help them come into school confident
3. Validate feelings. Speak with your child about how worries about a new year/class are normal and that everyone feels this way. You can do this by: naming the feeling, acknowledging this must be hard for your child (validate) and meet the need through physical comfort, a coping strategy, a pep-talk or anything else that you believe your child needs.

Term 1 is an exciting time but may bring a lot change. Reach out to your teacher is your child is still having trouble adjusting. By working as a team, we can make sure that all students succeed through support and consistency.