Overcoming First Day of School Anxiety
The first day of school can be scary for kids of all grade levels. Even kids who are excited to go back to school may still experience some nerves during the last days of summer.
A new school year means new teachers, new classmates and new routines. Here are some practical tips for how parents can ease first day of school jitters and set their child up for a successful school year.
Talk to your child about their concerns
One of the most important steps in combating back-to-school anxiety is listening to your child’s feelings and acknowledging their concerns. Let them know that feeling nervous at the start of a new school year is normal. You may also consider telling them about how you felt while you were in school and how you overcame similar challenges.
By asking your child if there’s anything specific that’s worrying them, you can determine the best course of action. For example, if your child is worried about making new friends, you can arrange a playdate with neighbors who attend the same school. If they’re transitioning from elementary school to middle school and are worried about finding their classrooms, you can take a little extra time during orientation to walk around the campus and run through what your child’s schedule will look like.
Visit the school in advance
Whether it’s a school tour, a community event for incoming families, or an orientation day, be sure to visit the school with your child before the first day rolls around. This can ease any worries your child might have about getting lost. As you walk through the campus, make note of key areas like the cafeteria, gym and restrooms. Be sure your child knows where they will be picked up on the first day of school.
Bonus—visiting the school is a great time to meet staff and ask questions!
Meet teachers and families
Many schools host “Meet the Teacher” or Open House events before the start of the school year. These events are a great way for both you and your child to get to know their new teacher(s). The teacher will likely go over some classroom expectations and discuss what types of projects your student will be doing during the school year.
In addition, Meet the Teacher nights and other back-to-school events allow you to meet other families in the same class as your child. Introduce yourself to some of the parents and encourage your child to say hi to some of their new classmates, too. Knowing a few familiar faces can go a long way in making your child feel comfortable on their first day.
Come up with a first day of school plan
You can alleviate some of your child’s back-to-school worries by coming up with a step-by-step game plan for the first day of school. Discuss details such as what time you’ll wake up, what time you’ll leave the house and what time you’ll pick them up after school.
Before the first day, set aside items like backpacks, lunch bags and shoes, so you don’t have to go searching for these items in the morning. Start adjusting bedtimes and wake up times a few weeks before the start of school so your child doesn’t wake up tired and groggy on their first day. In addition, plan ahead for what you’re going to make for breakfast and for your child’s packed lunch (if applicable).
Older kids may already know the ropes, but if your child is getting ready for their first day of kindergarten, practicing your morning routine will be especially beneficial. In the days or weeks leading up to the first day, have your child practice things like getting dressed, brushing teeth and packing their backpack.
Arrange a “first day of school buddy” for your child
If possible, make plans for your child to meet up with a friend on the first day of school. This might be an older sibling who attends the same school, a neighbor, a friend from last school year, or even a new classmate that you met at Meet the Teacher night. It can be really helpful for your child to have someone to connect with before class, during lunch or recess, or after school—especially if your child is anxious about navigating the campus on their own.
Involve your child in back-to-school preparations
Involving your child in back-to-school preparations can get them excited about the upcoming year. Take them with you to shop for school supplies or new clothes. If you have younger children, back-to-school shopping is a great opportunity to talk about what to expect in the classroom. Your child will probably have lots of questions as you browse the school supplies aisle! For older children, consider getting them involved in planning extracurricular activities or setting up their own study space at home.
Model confident behavior
Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. Since the start of a new school year can be stressful for parents, too, it’s important not to pass your own worries onto your kids. Be a positive role model by displaying confidence in your day-to-day life and sharing stories of how you’ve overcome feelings of anxiety. Show enthusiasm about the school year by asking your child questions about what they’re most looking forward to.
Plan a special first day of school activity
Planning something special for when your child gets home from school can offset first day anxieties and give your child something to look forward to. Consider making your child’s favorite meal for dinner or arranging a family game night. In addition to celebrating the first day of school, these activities give you a chance to bond and discuss how the day went.
Keep in mind that kids are often tired and overwhelmed after the first day of school. A simple, at-home activity may be a better choice than going out.
We hope that these tips can help your child feel more confident about starting school this fall. Remember that conquering back-to-school fears requires patience and understanding. In most cases, students begin to feel more comfortable after the first few days or weeks of school. If your child’s anxiety symptoms persist, you may want to reach out to your school’s Student Affairs team for personalized advice and support.
For additional information about setting your child up for success during a new school year, read our article “Tips for Tackling the New School Year.”
At BASIS Charter Schools, we strive to create positive and inclusive school communities where all students feel welcome. We foster a love of learning through hands-on, dynamic activities. Learn more about our accelerated K–12 curriculum and supportive school culture by finding a school near you and scheduling a tour.
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