The first day, the first week, even the first month of school can be a challenging and trying time for our students (and consequently, families). The sudden shift in routine, being away from loved ones, the heat, the unfamiliar environment, and having to meet teachers and students can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. 

Children can sometimes become stressed, anxious, angry, upset, easily irritated, resistant and/or withdrawn. Please remember that these behaviors are completely normal and may continue for weeks, if not months (particularly for students new to our school). 

Some general ways to help alleviate stress and ‘first day nervousness’ are:

1. Check in with your child. Ask them how they are feeling. Listen to them. Acknowledge and validate their feelings. Thank them for sharing. Tell them how you are feeling and how you felt when you were a kid. How it felt for you to start at a new school or to go back to school after the summer. 
2. Discuss what starting a new year means to them and to you. New beginnings, new opportunities and growth. Try to model positivity and optimism. On the other side of fear and anxiety lies empowerment, change and growth. Yes! That word again! 
3. Encourage healthy routines. Although this may be a little too late, re-establishing appropriate sleep and wake up times. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends at least 9 hours sleep for kids aged 9-12. Sleep is hugely important and often underestimated. Personally, I (try to) make an effort to get my (and my kids’) sleep schedule back on track at least a week before school starts because I know that if I don’t it will most likely be a rough start. 

Parents and caregivers, please remember to reach out to your child’s homeroom teacher if you have any questions or concerns. 

I am always available if you need to reach out to me ([email protected])  

I wish you all a smooth start to the school year!