As the summer winds down, parents and children prepare for the upcoming school year. From buying new clothes and supplies to trying to find out if any friends will be in the same class to sports activities beginning, families are afforded a fresh start with exciting possibilities. Starting a new school year can be challenging for children. The unknown, advancing academically, extended periods of time away from parents, insecurities and many other factors can lead to stress or anxiety for your children.
Parents may experience stress or anxiety for other reasons, including financial restraints, safety concerns about children taking the bus to school, bullying from other students and the continually increasing threats of shootings and violence. It’s important to focus on the things that are within your control and then do your best to navigate the unknown, through increasing awareness and education. Reassure your children that you are advocating on their behalf to ensure they are well-resourced and well-protected going into the next grade. Open and honest communication can be extremely helpful in easing anxiety and stressors for your children.
According to the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), many things influence how well children learn, develop and perform in school. To have the best possible chance for success, children need a general knowledge of the world around them; basic language, comprehension and problem-solving skills; and solid emotional and physical well-being.1
Below are some activities the PTA recommends to prepare for the next school year:1
- Literacy: Read with your child daily; practice writing letters; have regular conversations
- Patterns/Recognition: Sing rhyming songs to increase memory; play with puzzles and games; visit the zoo, park, post office or pet shop, and talk about sights and sounds
- Desire to Learn: Children mimic your behavior so when you are curious, they will want to be too
- Confidence/Independence: Teach children basic self-help tasks (tying their shoes); guide your child to make their own choices; kiss and hug your child several times a day
- Curiosity/ Motivation: Explore new places/activities; encourage children to finish difficult tasks
- Cooperation/Self-Control: Encourage your children to play well with other children; talk about the importance of sharing; set rules and enforce consequences; establish routines
Preparing for the upcoming school year doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Create a list of things that need to be completed before the first day of school and check off 1-2 of those tasks each day or week. By the time the first day of school arrives, you’ll be well organized and able to focus on all of the exciting moments your child experiences. If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.