Back to School: How to Support Your Child
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Back to School: How to Support Your Child
As the new school year begins, children often face a mix of excitement and anxiety. Whether they’re in primary or secondary school, it’s normal for them to have worries about the changes ahead.
As parents, understanding these concerns and knowing how to support your child can make all the difference in easing their transition back to school. Below, we’ve outlined some common worries and tips for supporting both primary and secondary students.
Primary School Children
For younger children, starting or returning to primary school can be a daunting experience. They may worry about being with a new teacher, making friends, separating from parents, or adapting to a new classroom environment.
1. Social Concerns:
Many primary-aged children worry about making friends or fitting in with their peers. Encourage your child by discussing the fun aspects of school, such as playing with friends or learning new things. Arrange playdates with classmates during the first few weeks of term to help them reconnect and feel more comfortable.
2. Separation Anxiety:
It’s common for younger children to feel anxious about being away from their parents. Create a positive morning routine to help ease the transition. Listen to their worries and validate them with responses such as, ‘I understand that you are scared. Can you remember another occasion when we were apart and you enjoyed yourself?’
3. Sensory Overload:
After spending the summer at home, particularly if they are an only child or have been in quiet environments, some children may find the noise and busyness of school overwhelming. Prepare them by gradually reintroducing more noise and social interaction at home. You can also talk to their teacher about seating arrangements or using noise-cancelling headphones during particularly loud times.
Secondary School Children
Secondary school students face different challenges as they navigate increased academic pressure, social dynamics, and the journey towards greater independence.
1. Academic Pressure:
As your child progresses through secondary school, they may feel the weight of increased academic expectations. Encourage open conversations about their workload and reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help. Establishing a regular study routine and helping them prioritise tasks can alleviate some of this pressure. This is especially important for those transitioning into secondary from primary school as it will ease extra anxiety and foster good habits.
2. Social Anxiety:
Secondary school often comes with complex social dynamics, which can be a source of stress. Encourage your child to talk about their friendships and social experiences. Remind them that it’s normal for friendships to change and that finding a supportive group of friends is key. If they’re struggling, suggest joining clubs or activities where they can meet like-minded peers. They can also reach out to our Pastoral Teams in school who are there to provide extra support when needed.
3. Sensory Overload:
For secondary students who have spent a lot of time alone or using headphones, the return to a noisy, bustling school environment can be particularly jarring. Discuss this with your child and acknowledge that it might take some time to adjust. Encourage them to take breaks when needed and practise mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing, to manage overwhelming situations.
4. Independence:
Help them develop organisational skills by using planners or digital tools to track assignments and deadlines. Regular check-ins can help them stay on top of their responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
Returning to school is a significant transition for children at all stages, and they may face various challenges as they adapt. By understanding their concerns and providing supportive strategies, you can help your child feel more confident and comfortable as they navigate the new school year. Open communication, reassurance, and practical support are key to helping them thrive both academically and socially.
Globeducate’s wellbeing focus this term is Digital Wellbeing. There will be a parent webinar, providing suggestions about how you can support your child’s wellbeing in terms of digital use, this term. A date will be shared with you shortly.
Rhiannon Phillips-Bianco
RIS Elementary School Teacher & Globeducate Head of Wellbeing
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