New Year Nerves

The new school year can be exceptionally anxiety-provoking for any child, as well as their parents or caregivers. Educational psychologist, Claire Maher has advice for families as they enter into a new stage of school routines.

the new school year means a new teacher, possibly new or different classmates, and sometimes even a new school, with a new school uniform, and completely new environment. There are a number of ways that families can try to make the new school year as stress and anxiety free as possible.

THE FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL 

Prior to starting the new school year, ensure that your child is familiar with the school and the uniform. Many schools offer a ‘meet and greet’ opportunity in the year before, allowing children to meet their teacher and new classmates– encourage your child to attend, and as parents you can participate too.

Equip your child with the correct school uniform and stationery supplies to ensure they are set for the day, and won’t be singled out in any way. Walk your child to the classroom initially if that’s what they need from you, but discuss the plan thereafter, establishing when it would be OK to leave them at the end of the corridor or at the car.

Try to be a bit early to fetch your child during their first few days of school. If you’re running late, send a message to their teacher or another parent to let your child know that you’ll be late or if there has been a change in plans.

If your child attends aftercare, familiarise them with the environment beforehand so they know where to go, and what will be expected of them.

Because this is a stressful time for parents too, ensure that you find ways to alleviate this stress. Make freezer dinners for the first week or two of the new school year – this will take the pressure off you, and allow you to spend time with your family in the evenings instead. Try as much as possible to manage your own stress to make this process easier for you and so as not to affect your child during this time.

STICK TO A ROUTINE