Anxious Going Back to School?

I have been out of school for long enough that I no longer have school nightmares every August/September anymore. But it took a number of years being away before those dreams faded!

There can be a lot of excitement over moving into higher grades or a new school, seeing friends you have been separated from over the summer and finding out what they did, and getting new clothes or school supplies (I love my notebooks and pens!) But also a lot of anxiety over new teachers, difficult subjects, locker combinations, finding your way around a new school, remembering a locker combination, and many other challenges. These days, there may be additional anxiety over being around other people with the threat of COVID.

Children may experience nightmares, behavioural problems, bed wetting, have headaches or stomachaches, or other symptoms.

So what can you do to help your kids (or yourself) feel better going back to the classroom?

• Encourage them to talk about it. Let them know they aren’t the only one feeling anxious and afraid. Sometimes it is easier to talk in the car or on a walk.
• Try to be calm and relaxed yourself. Kids can sense when you are stressed and reflect your feelings.
• Help to dispel anxiety over the unknown. Talk about the new routines, bus or walking routes, where…