Easing Into the School Year
It seems hard to believe that the summer is almost other. Just as we are getting into the relaxed schedule (staying up a little later, living in bathing suits and eating popsicles all day), the anxiety of starting the new school year begins to creep up. For many, preparing for this time can often be an overwhelming task. So how do we counteract this? Especially when family vacations and summer camps usually last right up until the time school starts. The answer is simple. Easing in – the key to most successful transitions. But remember, easing in means no procrastinating, not waiting until the day before or the week school begins to get what you need. So then how can we get everything done with little or no stress? The following are some ideas and guidelines to consider:
• Purchase school supplies and school clothing early. You don’t have to wait until you receive the class list. Throughout the year when you see items on sale, purchase them and store in a closet until school starts. It may not be everything you need, but at least it’s a head start. And the more you can do ahead of time, the less stressed you and your child will be.
• If your child is transitioning to a new school this year, make a visit over the summer to get familiar with the surroundings. See the classroom, the building/office, etc. If your child is taking the school bus for the first time, then go for a dry run on the route the bus would travel. The more prepared we are and the more we can predict behavior and situations, the less anxiety we will carry. This is especially true for children.
• Prepare the teacher. If your child has special accommodations or needs let the teacher know before school starts. Emailing the teacher ahead of time, dropping a note or scheduling an appointment are good ways to connect.
• Don’t forget the routine! Maybe about a week before school begins, get back into the school-year structure in the home – earlier dinner or bedtime, or whatever it is for your family to get prepared.
• Reading books about experiences your child may have. Beginning kindergarten, making new friends or dealing with bullies are some examples. Reading is a great way to engage your child in the talking that you will want to continue throughout the school year.
• And most importantly: RELAX! The more your child sees you are excited about their entrance to the school year, the easier it will be. Your positive attitude will only encourage and model the same to your child.
So to all of you families, we wish you a safe and successful upcoming school year and hope your transition to the new beginning is an easy one!
By Rachel Weinstein, LMHC
Manager of Clinical Services
