How to handle returning to school and reduce anxiety in children

How to handle returning to school and reduce anxiety in children

We are in the last fortnight of February and it is time to prepare for the return to school.

We are in the last fortnight of February and it is time to prepare for the return to school. This period involves the purchase of uniforms and school supplies, but it is also important to consider how to properly manage this time to reduce anxiety in children, re-regulate schedules and recover the habits and discipline that were more flexible during the holidays.

One of the keys to a successful return is to start regulating sleep schedules in advance. During the holidays, it is common for children to go to bed and get up later, which can affect their performance and adaptation to the school schedule. It is advisable to gradually advance the bedtime a week before the start of classes, so that children get used to getting up early and have enough rest.

In addition to regulating sleep schedules, it is important to incorporate schedules back into the functioning of the home in a more obvious way. During the holidays, daily routines such as meal times, household chores, and extracurricular activities may have been relaxed. As the return to school approaches, it is advisable to gradually resume these routines, so that children adapt again to the structure and discipline that the school environment implies.

Preparing back-to-school planning is also essential to avoid unnecessary stress. It is important to involve children in this process, allowing them to participate in choosing school supplies and organizing their backpack. This will give them a sense of control and help them feel more prepared for returning to school.

In addition to material preparation, it is important to address the emotions and concerns that may arise in children during this period. It is normal for them to feel anxiety about a change in routine and separation from their parents. It is important to give them space to express their emotions and offer words of support and reassurance. Reminding them that going back to school also means meeting friends and resuming activities they like can help them feel more excited and motivated.

Another aspect to take into account is communication with teachers. It is advisable to establish a meeting or contact with teachers before the start of classes, to find out the expectations and requirements of the new school year. This will allow parents and children to have clarity about what is expected of them, which can reduce anxiety and make it easier to adapt to the new environment.

Finally, it is important to remember that returning to school should not be seen as a burden, but as an opportunity to learn and grow. It is normal for the first few days to be a little difficult, but with patience and support, children will be able to adapt to the school routine again. Celebrating their achievements and recognizing their efforts can help them stay positive and motivated.

To properly manage the return to school and reduce anxiety in children, it is important to begin regulating sleep schedules in advance, re-incorporate schedules into the functioning of the home, prepare return planning in an organized manner, address emotions and concerns of children, establish communication with teachers and maintain a positive attitude. With these strategies, the return to school will be more bearable and children will be able to successfully adapt to the new school year.