For much of the southern hemisphere, and here in Singapore, it’s that time of year when our kids are starting a new school year. Going back to school is a time of stress and concern, not just for the children but also their parents. How we deal with the first few days can effect how they deal with the year ahead. So it’s important that we start before the school year does in preparing both ourselves and our children for what is to come.
One of the first things we can do is to reassure them that what they are feeling is normal. Being nervous about what is to come is not only alright, it’s the normal reaction. And if we, as parents, are feeling anxious too, it’s a good idea to share that with them. We can also use this to let them know that it’s going to be okay, and try to find things that they can get excited about. Whether it’s a new class they’re interested in, or seeing their friends again, it can help create a sense of excitement for the new year.
It’s also important to acknowledge and deal with our own stress. Going from holidays to school routines can change our routines and cause a burden on us. It’s important though, that we don’t let this stress effect how we interact with our kids, because that can increase their stress levels. Dealing with our own stress needs to be done to reduce their’s.
As well as preparing physically for the new school year by getting supplies and getting into a regular sleep schedule, we need to focus on mentally and emotionally preparing them. Simply talking to them is a great way to find out what they are worried about and lets us deal with what they fear the most. Giving advice can help them feel better, but remember, sometimes all they need is to voice their fears and they’ll feel better.
After playing games and having fun for the last month or more, getting back into the routine of studying is quite often a major hurdle. Some things that can help include getting enough sleep (good luck with that), a balanced diet (I still can’t balance my own diet), and regular exercise (like when I walk from the bedroom to the kitchen, right?). Something that my wife and I tried with our son, Jay, was to get him to spend an hour everyday of his holidays reviewing material from the previous year. We failed miserably, but when it was working it did seem to help him retain focus, and it’s something intend to continue to do in his future school holidays.
I thin the most important thing we can do for our kids in preparing them for a new school year, is to just be there for them. Care for them, love them, and respect them, but most of all talk to them.