Resuming classes after an unsuccessful academic session can be both thrilling and nerve-wracking for parents if their child did poorly academically in previous academic terms. Uncontrolled anxiety could lead to severe mental issues which hinder academic performance for new academic terms.
Parents looking to ensure their child has an optimal experience at school should follow these mental health tips for returning to school in order to ensure a smooth transition and prioritize mental wellbeing – which in turn could benefit academic performance.
This article is written from the perspective of parents wanting to support their children’s mental wellbeing as they return to school. Here are eight mental health tips for returning to school:
1. Manage Expectations
A key mental health tip when returning to school is managing expectations and setting realistic goals. Remind them that things might not go exactly according to plan; always remain kind and patient with themselves.
Child who fell short in meeting their academic expectations last semester may want to catch up this session, leading them down an anxious path that could cause further academic decline if left unattended. Remind your child it is OK if they do not reach the expected goal and to strive toward attaining it regardless of pressure from peers or parents.
2. Stay Organized
Your child has probably enjoyed playing and sleeping comfortably over the holidays, making their return to school an adjustment period. Planners, calendars or digital tools may help your child or teen keep track of assignments, exams and deadlines more easily.
Organization is key for managing stress and avoiding last-minute panic, which may produce anxiety and sadness. You can teach your child to use digital tools, planners or calendars independently so they stay on track.
3. Promote supportive friendships at schools
Positive relationships play a vital role in supporting your child’s mental wellbeing. Encourage your child to make new acquaintances at school – just saying hello daily can start the ball rolling.
Encourage them to accept rejection as not everyone they meet will want to make friends with them.
Help your child or teen understand that deep relationships are more valuable than many superficial ones when selecting friends.
As they build new friendships without developing feelings of inferiority complex, this will keep their equilibrium intact.
4. Foster Open Communication
To support open and honest communication between parent and child regarding school life transitions, create an environment in which both can voice their worries and excitement freely and safely.
Make sure you listen closely and carefully respond to your child’s emotions and needs, validating their feelings while assuring them you’re always here for support.
Before enrolling your child at school, try visiting it beforehand in order to help ease his or her transition. This may reduce anxiety about being in a different environment.
Make sure your child has a relaxing space at home where they can unwind, complete homework assignments or engage in relaxing activities.
5. Foster Hobbies
Assist your children in exploring activities they find enjoyable; taking part in these pursuits can bring both enjoyment and relaxation.
If your child participates on their school sports team, be sure to attend all their games as cheerleader. This makes him feel loved and ensures his happiness.
6. Offer Reassurance
Remind your child they have your support, that you are there when needed to listen or assist, and let them know you are their number one fan in school. This helps build their confidence and courage as they face any obstacle head on.
7. Encourage them to seek help when necessary
It is important for children struggling with their mental health to speak out if they experience distress; encourage yours to connect with an elder such as a school counselor, therapist or mental health professional for support.
8. Acknowleign Achievements
Teach your children or adolescents how to recognize and celebrate all their achievements – no matter how small.
Not every good effort should be rewarded as though they’d need to reach the top of their class before getting something in return. Rewarding them helps strengthen motivation and self-esteem.
Conclusion
Each child and teen’s experience is different, and finding strategies that work for yours is paramount. If their mental health challenges significantly impair daily life, seeking professional assistance could be invaluable.