As August rolls around, many families are preparing for the back-to-school season. For some, this time is filled with excitement—shopping for new clothes, picking out school supplies, and meeting new teachers. However, for others, it can be a source of stress and anxiety, especially for children who struggle with mental health challenges.
“The end of summer break after being home with loved ones can cause nervousness and anxiety in some children,” Jerome Nelson, Alexander Youth Network’s Charlotte Day Treatment Program Manager, explains. “We tend to see that after summer break, children’s schedules suddenly go from relaxed, back to structured, which can be a difficult transition,” Nelson noted.
Transitioning back to school can be overwhelming for kids. The change in routine, the pressure to perform academically, and the social dynamics can all contribute to heightened stress levels.
“Over extended breaks, most parents allow their kids time to break from their regular daily schedule and let the kids enjoy their time away from school. This change often leads to kids struggling to get back on schedule once school starts back,” Nelson said.
As parents and caregivers, it’s crucial to be proactive in supporting your child’s mental well-being during this time. Here are some strategies to help your child navigate the back-to-school transition:
1. Establish a Routine
A consistent daily schedule provides a sense of stability and predictability for children. Establishing regular bedtimes, wake-up times, and meal schedules can help ease the transition back to school. Involving your child in planning their daily routine can also give them a sense of control and reduce anxiety.
2. Foster Open Communication
Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns about returning to school. Create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to talk about their worries, whether it’s about making new friends, keeping up with schoolwork, or adjusting to a new environment. Listen actively and offer reassurance and support.
3. Limit Screen Time and Manage Content
While technology can be a valuable educational tool, it’s important to monitor and limit your child’s screen time. Excessive use of screens, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep and contribute to anxiety. Be mindful of the content your child consumes, and discuss with them the importance of engaging with positive and age-appropriate media.
4. Encourage Positive Relationships
Building healthy relationships with peers and teachers is crucial for your child’s social and emotional development. Encourage your child to participate in extracurricular activities or join clubs that interest them. These activities provide opportunities for social interaction and help build confidence.
5. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If your child exhibits signs of significant distress, such as persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities, changes in sleep or appetite, or difficulty concentrating, it may be time to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide valuable support and guidance, helping your child navigate their challenges and develop coping strategies.
After you try these tips and you notice that your child is still struggling, behaviorally or emotionally, with the transition back to school, it may be time to seek additional support and our Day Treatment Program may be an option that can help.
In Day Treatment, our highly structured classroom environment is coupled with multi-sensory techniques and smaller class sizes, ensuring that children have the best success in overcoming their academic and behavioral challenges.
“The primary goal of Day Treatment is improving a student’s ability to interact in a positive manner with others,” Nelson noted. “We concentrate on improving social skills as most of the students we serve are lacking in this area. Providing coaching on understanding a student’s triggers and what coping skills work are key to a student’s ability to interact with others.”
To refer a child to one of our Day Treatment programs please, download the referral form and contact the Access Department via phone, (855) 362-8470, or email intake@aynkids.org.
The back-to-school transition can be a challenging time, but with the right support and strategies, it can also be an opportunity for growth and development. By being attentive to your child’s needs and providing a supportive environment, you can help them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Together, we can ensure that all children have a positive and healthy start to the school year. 💙
Written by Stacia Jackson & Kevin Whitlock
