It’s time to start preparing our children for their return to school. This preparation includes going to the doctor for a yearly physical, collecting school supplies and buying back-to-school clothes. It's also a time to help our kids prepare mentally and emotionally for this transition back to school.
The period going into a new school year is often filled with a mixture of emotions, feelings of excitement and nervous anticipation. While children might be feeling these emotions, they might not understand them or have the skills to communicate what they’re feeling. With one in five children living with a significant mental illness, it’s important that we address the mental health challenges that could significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and focus at school. As they start preparing for bus rides and homework, it’s important to watch for any significant changes in their behaviors or routines and start conversations with them about how they feel about school.
Four Steps for Back to School: Mental Health Checklist
1. Create a Routine: To help them prepare, about one to two weeks before school starts, gradually begin to move your child’s bedtime and wake up time (about 15 minutes each day) to what it’ll be during the school year. It can also be helpful to practice a school morning routine, such as getting ready for the bus at a certain time.
2. Help Them Prepare: Review their daily schedule and school routine. Put important items on a family calendar for everyone to see what days they’ll be at school, at home or even at baseball practice. Include important events such as school orientations and open houses. These events give kids an opportunity to meet their teachers and get a feel for the layout.
3. Discuss Expectations: Find a relaxed, quiet time for you and your child to sit together and ask them what their goals are for the upcoming school year. Is there a rule that homework be completed before screen time? Gently remind them of your expectations for the school year too.
4. Create an Environment of Support: Practice encouraging your child to express their feelings by reflecting back to them what you hear them saying. Listen to what they’re saying and emphasize that you care for their mental health and their overall health. Talking about caring for their mental health can help normalize seeking support. For example, when a person has strep throat, they need to go to a doctor. Likewise, if your child needs mental health support, discuss with them whom they can reach out to at school when they need support and if beneficial, about seeing a therapist of the school, allowing them to feel more confident and at ease on their first day.
