5 Tips To Ease Anxiety for Back to School

As the new school year approaches, many students and parents experience heightened levels of anxiety. Whether transitioning to a new grade, school, or educational environment, these tips can help ease the stress and promote a smoother start to the academic year.

1. Establish Routine Early:

Start adjusting bedtime and morning routines at least a week before school starts. Gradually shifting sleep schedules can help students readjust to early mornings, reducing the shock of suddenly having to wake up early.

2. Open Dialogue with Children:

Encourage open conversations about their feelings and concerns regarding the upcoming school year. Validating their emotions and addressing specific worries can help alleviate anxiety. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), open communication fosters resilience in children.

3. Foster a Supportive Environment:

Create a supportive home environment by actively listening to children's concerns and offering encouragement. This can include celebrating successes, no matter how small, and providing reassurance during times of uncertainty.  Emphasize that health is more important than grades. 

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques:

Teach relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices. Parents, these are great for you to do, too!   These techniques can help students manage stress and anxiety both at home and in school settings. The Mayo Clinic suggests that regular practice of relaxation techniques can reduce symptoms of anxiety.

5. Stay Informed and Engaged:

Stay informed about school policies, activities, and resources available to support students. Engage with teachers and school counselors to address specific concerns and ensure that necessary accommodations are in place.

By implementing these strategies, parents and caregivers can help ease back-to-school anxiety and support children in having a positive and successful start to the new academic year.

Know a student heading back to school?  Build them a wellness care package, add your personal note, and let us do the rest!

Sources:

• American Psychological Association (APA). (n.d.). Back to school: How to ease the transition. Retrieved from APA
• Mayo Clinic. (2023). Stress relief from laughter? It's no joke. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic