The new school year is approaching. It is time to purchase new clothes, backpacks, and classroom supplies. In all the excitement of new things, parents can forget that the upcoming school year can be a time of fear or trepidation for little ones.
Many youngsters experience pre-school-year jitters or anxiety. While you can look for child anxiety medication over the counter to help soothe your child's nerves, experts also recommend learning about anxiety and implementing a few helpful strategies.
What Does Back-to-School Anxiety Look Like
Back-to-school anxiety can take on many forms. Some children will shy away from social activities. They may avoid friends and family members. Some children can become quiet and distant. On the opposite end of the spectrum, some little ones will develop explosive tantrums, especially when separating from their parents. Medical professionals also explain that there are many physical symptoms of anxiety, including:
- Fatigue
- Stomachaches
- Restlessness
- Challenges sleeping alone
Based on the many Brillia medication reviews, it is fair to suggest it can help calm a child's nerves. However, if your child continues to experience high levels of anxiety, schedule an appointment with their pediatrician or a child psychologist.
Preparing Your Child for the First Day
Besides over-the-counter anxiety medication, one of the best things you can do for your child is to prepare them for their first day of school. Preparation is often as simple as settling back into school year routines. For example, ensure everyone is up, bathed, and fed by a specific time. Also, ensure the TVs go off, and pajamas go on at the same time every evening.
Structure is ideal for children and families, but it is beneficial for anxious children. Predictability is less confusing and intimidating than change, so set those clocks and schedule those meals.
Visiting the School and Rehearse Drop Off
In the few weeks before school starts, you can help your child get used to the property and the drop-off routine. In addition to setting clocks and getting up on a schedule, pack your child in the car and take them to school. Park and get out of the vehicle. Walk them to the door of the building. If the building is open, bring them inside to show them where their classroom is.
Rehearsing the drop-off routine makes it predictable and ordinary instead of different and scary. While rehearsals might not eliminate all first-day jitters, they can help.
Validating Concern
Anxiety is a challenging condition to cope with, and your child will need to learn effective strategies. In the meantime, it can help for parents to validate their little one's concerns.
Validation does not mean agreeing with fears or solidifying them. What you want to do is show empathy. Let your child know that nervousness about a new activity is a valid emotion and nothing to feel shame about. However, also encourage them to conquer their nerves and persevere with your support.
Back-to-school anxiety is challenging to deal with for parents and children. If your child cannot control their anxiety and it is hindering their progression, talk with a medical professional.
