As the summer draws to a close, the back-to-school season is upon us. For many families, this time of year is filled with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and a little anxiety. At Oxfordshire Mind, we understand that both parents and children might have concerns about the transition back to the classroom. That’s why we’ve put together some practical tips to help you and your children manage this period with wellbeing in mind.
Tips for Parents: Maintaining Your Wellbeing
As a parent, it’s easy to focus entirely on your child’s needs, but it’s crucial to look after your own wellbeing too. Here are some strategies to help you stay balanced during the back-to-school period:
1. Prioritise Self-Care
- Daily Routine: Establish a routine that includes time for yourself, whether it’s a quiet cup of tea in the morning, a short walk, or some reading time before bed.
- Physical Activity: Incorporate regular exercise into your week. Even a 20-minute walk can significantly boost your mood and reduce stress.
- Mindfulness: Practise mindfulness or meditation. Even just a few minutes a day can help clear your mind and reduce anxiety.
2. Manage Your Expectations
- Be Realistic: Understand that it’s normal to have a mix of emotions during this time. Not everything has to be perfect.
- Flexible Planning: Make plans, but remain flexible. Unexpected changes can happen, and being adaptable can help reduce stress.
3. Connect with Others
- Social Support: Talk to other parents about how they’re feeling. Sharing experiences can be comforting and provide new ideas for managing stress.
- Seek Help if Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Oxfordshire Mind offers a range of services that can help.
4. Communicate with Your Child
- Open Dialogue: Keep the lines of communication open with your child. Ask them how they’re feeling about going back to school and listen to their concerns without judgement.
- Reassurance: Provide reassurance and remind them that it’s okay to feel nervous. Your calm presence can help them feel more secure.
Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Wellbeing
Children may face various challenges when returning to school, from social anxieties to academic pressures. Here are some tips to help them manage their wellbeing:
1. Establish a Routine
- Consistent Schedule: Help your child adjust by re-establishing a consistent daily routine. This includes regular bedtimes, meal times, and time for homework.
- Transition Period: Start easing them back into the school routine a few days before school starts. This can make the transition smoother.
2. Encourage Open Communication
- Check-Ins: Regularly check in with your child about their day. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings.
- Active Listening: Be an active listener. Sometimes, children just need someone to listen to their concerns without immediately trying to solve the problem.
3. Support Social Connections
- Friendships: Encourage your child to reconnect with school friends before the term starts. This can ease the anxiety of seeing everyone again after a long break.
- Extracurricular Activities: Support their participation in extracurricular activities where they can make friends and build confidence.
4. Recognise Signs of Stress
- Behavioural Changes: Be mindful of any changes in your child’s behaviour, such as withdrawal, irritability, or trouble sleeping. These could be signs of stress or anxiety.
- Seek Support: If you notice persistent signs of stress, consider reaching out to your child’s teacher or a mental health professional for guidance.
5. Promote Positive Thinking
- Encouragement: Encourage your child to focus on the positive aspects of school, such as seeing friends, learning new things, or participating in fun activities.
- Problem-Solving: Help them develop problem-solving skills so they feel more confident in handling challenges that may arise.
Final Thoughts
Returning to school after a break can be a time of significant change, and it’s natural for both parents and children to experience a range of emotions. By prioritising your wellbeing and supporting your child’s mental health, you can help make this transition as smooth as possible. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this period alone—Oxfordshire Mind is here to support you every step of the way.
For more resources on mental health and wellbeing, visit our website or contact us directly. Together, we can ensure a positive and healthy start to the new school year.