HOW TO TACKLE SCHOOL ANXIETY

Now that the school term has been underway for a month, most children have settled into the school routine. However, there are also some kids that are not settling well, so let’s look into why this might happen.

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It can be difficult to transition back into the structured classroom environment, especially if your child has become accustomed to learning from home. Classrooms require behaviours that can be challenging for some kids - like sitting still, focusing and being organised. Separation anxiety and the sudden switch into interacting with classmates can be stressful for sensitive children. Here are a few things that might help to reduce your child’s anxiety around school.

MENTAL WELLBEING AND STRUCTURE

The abrupt shift from learning at home and going into a school structure, with a new schedule, can be tough on a child. Introducing a regular routine and structure at home is calming for a child. (See ‘The Importance of Family Routines’ article on page 34.) A home routine could be as simple as having regular mealtimes together as a family, consistent sleeping and waking timings or weekend activities. Stay calm and confident about it, as children mimic what they see at home and a regular calm routine generally has a calming effect on children.

School anxiety

While it is normal to feel some discomfort adapting to the new school term, it is definitely a concern if your child is still showing anxiety or experiences difficulties in school at this stage of the new term. If you have any worries, do not hesitate to voice your concerns with your child’s teacher to see how you can both collaborate to help.

BRAIN CHANGES