Getting Back Into the Swing of School
The first couple weeks back to school are usually hectic. Having a good plan of attack can be the first step to making that transition back to school easier and more enjoyable for the whole family. For those of us who have kids that are excited to go back to school, getting supplies or new clothes can be a fun experience. There’s less groaning about changing from summer bed times to school bed times, because they can’t wait to get up in the morning and get started. However, not all kids like going to school. For one reason or another, there are some kids that dread starting the new school year and want nothing to do with preparation, fight about going back to school bed times and will drag their feet in the morning when it’s time to get ready to go. Either way, here are some tips that can help the family get back into the swing of school.
Start Early: Giving yourself a couple of weeks to get everything done before returning to school is ideal. That way instead of feeling overwhelmed and rushed, you and your kiddo can take time to go back to school shopping. We’ve all had those moments when we NEED to get markers or a backpack, but our kids are tired of shopping and are hindering this process instead of helping. Having shorter shopping periods does mean we may have to go out a couple of times, but can ultimately prove to be more productive and pleasurable for all involved. So leaving time to make a couple of trips can be helpful.
Get In A Routine: I will be up front about this idea, a lot of kids, especially teens, will groan about this next suggestion – but starting the new bed time routine early helps kids readjust without being overtired the first few days of school. Getting them to bed earlier and getting them up earlier in the morning can help the transition go more smoothly when it’s actually required.
Preparation: For those of us who may not be morning people (myself included), packing bags the night before can be great! Working with your kids to increase their responsibility in packing their backpacks and lunch bags the night before, makes for an easier morning. Adding this to the nighttime routine can also help them get back into the swing of things.
Communicate: Whether our kids are excited or dreading going back to school, talking with them about their thoughts and feelings is always helpful for them. For kids that may be nervous about returning, talking to them about their fears and problem solving ways they can manage these fears can help them feel less anxious and more courageous on their first day.
Barrington Behavioral Health and Wellness has many therapists on staff that specialize in child and adolescent counseling and family support. If you would like to know more about how we can help, contact us at 888-261-2178 or email us at help@barringtonbhw.com
Additional Resources
Schools in our area may have different start dates and times. Here are links to the school district websites for Barrington and Lake Zurich.
Dr. Genevieve, Nehrt Psy.D.
Dr. Nehrt utilizes multiple therapy modalities to better assess and treat a family’s needs. Her goal is to help each child and family develop positive skills to improve and enrich their lives.
Dr. Nehrt conducts individual, family and group therapy with children as young as four years of age and addresses issues related to anger, attention and focus, depression, self-injury, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, low self-esteem and adolescent substance abuse.
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