Kim Wright, Licensed clinical social worker at the Jackson County Memorial Hospital Counseling Center in Altus, provides some insight to parents and students for the new school year.
Going back to school means getting back into a routine. No more staying up late and sleeping in. Back to school means a new teacher, new classroom, new classmates and friends, new routines and in some cases even a new school. While many parents look forward to the start of the new school year, it can be stressful for both parents and students.
Here are some ideas that parents might use to get their child ready to go back to school:
1) Practice the back to school routine a few times before the first day (e.g., go to bed, get up, dress, eat breakfast, brush teeth and be out the door by 8 am).
2) Have your child prepare what he/she can the night before (pick out clothes, pack lunch, pack school bag, etc).
3) Talk to the school and find out what the routines are. If there are new routines, try to prepare your child by practicing or talking about the changes. Visit the school and teacher with your child if possible.
4) Find a set bedtime that lets your child feel well rested in the morning.
5) Purchase school supplies and clothes with your child. Be sure to break in new shoes before the start of the school year.
6) Try to help get your child excited about school by talking about seeing friends again, sharing tales of their summer with the teacher and other students, etc.
7) Get a copy of the school menu and review food choices with your child.
Parents will want to put aside extra time, especially on the first day, to talk with their child before school and on the drive or walk there. If parents are running late and have to hurry, children may become stressed and anxious. Be sure to say good-bye to your child and wish him/her a good day. At the end of the workday, parents will want to put aside their own concerns and focus on being a parent.
Post a Comment
