Article written by Sharon Ahn, PCN Mental Health Clinician

This September, you may find yourself busy with back-to-school preparations for your children. Going back to school is not only a significant moment for school-going children but for you as a parent as well. The pressure of ensuring that everything is in place for your child’s smooth transition can lead to parental burnout. Children whose parents understand, support, and hear them are much more likely to negotiate this period successfully. Returning to school is not just about getting back into new routines and environments; it also means managing the emotional challenges that come with these changes.

Watching over your child’s well-being this school season

Starting a new school season can bring about different feelings in your children. For some children, it can be yet another positive experience because they get to meet their friends and enjoy activities in school. However, the idea of going back to school can be stressful for others because of academic pressure, social issues, or difficulties fitting into a new environment.

In her book Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be, Dr. Becky Kennedy encourages parents to validate their children so that they train them to have self-compassion and trust their feelings. By validating your child’s feelings, instead of dismissing them with phrases like “things will get better,” you acknowledge their experience and make them more confident. Here are some tips you can use to identify, acknowledge, and validate your child’s feelings this new school season:

  • Talk with your child about how they feel about going back to school.
  • Let your child know that they should do their best, not be perfect.
  • For younger children, stories or books relating to themes of going back to school are helpful in starting these discussions.
  • Gradual changes in bedtime, rise time, and time dedicated to homework or reading can help kids get back into a school schedule.
  • Help your child set realistic goals and expectations about the new school year.

Your health as a parent 

Preparing your children for the new school season can be mentally and emotionally draining for you as a parent. It is important to prioritize your well-being during this time because your mental health will affect how well you can support your child. Taking care of yourself is an important part of being there for your child.

As school year starts, you might find yourself experiencing a mix of emotions. You might be relieved about returning to a structured routine and worried about your child’s well-being as they head back to school. Acknowledge your feelings and seek help if you feel overwhelmed so that you stay mentally and emotionally fit during this period.

Maintaining wellness throughout the school term

Children who are anxious far too often can develop other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety disorders. As parents, it is important to recognize signs of distress in your child, such as when they withdraw from activities they usually enjoy, become unusually irritable, or suddenly start getting low grades in school. Here are some ways you can address these challenges early so that you safeguard your child’s mental well-being:

  • Teach your child self-care techniques, such as breathing exercises, physical exercise schedules, and rest breaks.
  • Network with teachers, counsellors, and other parents to discuss the mental health of your children so that you stay informed about your child’s experience at school.

Final thoughts…

The back-to-school season is challenging for most families. Being aware of how best to promote your child’s well-being can help your child start the school season with confidence and resiliency. Open communication, realistic expectations, and a focus on self-care can help you ensure your child is mentally and emotionally healthy as they start the new school term. If your child is showing signs of severe distress, do not delay consulting with a mental health professional. Here are some resources within North Shore that will help your child overcome challenges with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours as the new school season begins.

Resources