Dr. Emily Edlynn, clinical psychologist, author of "The Art and Science of Mom" parenting blog and upcoming parenting book "Parenting for Anatomy," says back-to-school anxiety is normal among kids and teens as they had a long summer break and even the most social child can experience it.
According to Parents, back-to-school anxiety is like a Monday at work after a week-long vacation. The beginning of the school year is always a hot mess of stress for the parents as anxiety among children appears.
Erika Chiappini, Johns Hopkins Children's Center psychologist, says that parents may notice their children displaying nervousness regarding unfamiliar routines, schoolwork, or social interactions. It is a normal stage of back-to-school jitters that will gradually subside over a few weeks.
These anxieties and worries are due to school-related issues, including teachers, friends, fitting in, and being away from their parents.
Children's transition from home to school
Rachel Busman, PsyD, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety, noted that kids who have difficulties separating from their parents, either mom or dad, will see their anxiety peak during the transition.
The beginning of the school year may be challenging for kids, especially those just entering the transition year. She emphasizes going into kindergarten, middle school, and new school. It also might appear stressful for the kids if they find out that their good friend has moved to a different school or now has another teacher for the school year. During the transition, Dr. Busman suggests parents remain supportive and calm as it will be challenging for both children and parents. The pressure is on the parents; thus, they must ensure that the stress will not be passed on to the children.
Parents should acknowledge their child's feelings as valid and help them feel more secure if their fear is not dismissed. Children will not actually ask for any advice but only validation of what they feel. Dr. Busman noted that children do not expect parents to fix their fears but rather teach them how to handle them and validate their feelings as it somehow demonstrates confidence, Child Mind Institute reported.
Helping your children cope with back-to-school anxiety
To avoid any back-to-school anxiety, parents must prepare their children for the upcoming transition by introducing it to them. Remember that kids do not need a solution but a validation. If fear kicks in, help them to calm down.
Research shows that the presence of a familiar peer during school transitions helps them to adjust quickly. Therefore, arrange play dates with one or more familiar friends before school starts as it will help them to know the people they will be in the same room or teacher.
Chiappini advises parents to seek an immediate evaluation from a psychologist or psychiatrist if their child shows continuous distress around school and is not improving or the symptoms are worsening. Consultations can help both children and parents understand the child's situation and know how to work together on resolving matters, Johns Hopkins Medicine reported.
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