Back to school!

The time has come that children everywhere have been dreading: Back to school time! For many children this is a stressful time of year. Not only is it the end of care-free summer days, but starting school again, resuming homework every night, and meeting new students and teachers can be very worrisome for kids. Some children will be going to new schools, and that may mean new peer groups. Learning where your classes are in large, unfamiliar schools can be anxiety-provoking, not to mention dealing with issues like bullying and peer pressure.  

Many kids have spent the summer staying up late at night and sleeping away the morning. They may also have been playing video games all afternoon and evening. Going back to the school night/school morning routine can be difficult for some, and parents may see resistance and irritability in their children related to this.

Back to school can be stressful for parents as well. Getting back into the routine of waking early, making lunches, and doing the carpool takes some getting used to.  It may help for you and your children to engage in healthy, stress management techniques and activities during this time. Eating right, exercising, having a regular sleep/wake routine, and taking time to relax can help during this sometimes difficult transition. Remember to communicate with the other members of your home; mutual support and awareness of what is stressful to someone can be beneficial. Together you and your family can survive the stress and worry of going back to school.