With the new school year beginning in just a few weeks, it is natural to feel anxious about how your children will adjust to the new year. Kids who have been out of school for the summer need time to adjust to a new routine. Sometimes, it can help to establish a routine slowly, over time, so everyone in the home can get used to the change. This is especially important for children who have experienced trauma, who may need additional support to help them feel comfortable with a new schedule.
- Communicate expectations clearly.
Knowing what to expect always helps to ease anxiety and fear. Going over school expectations, house rules, and the new weekly or daily schedule can give children the chance to ask questions and be a part of the planning. Posting a calendar or chart of weekly activities or your morning routine is a great way for kids to get involved in their own schedule and feel like a part of the family.
- Establish healthy bedtimes and curfews.
Sleep is an incredibly important part of a healthy routine. Children who get age-appropriate amounts of sleep each night fare much better academically than their peers who show up sleepy and disengaged. Establishing a healthy bedtime and curfew for your child with built-in time to decompress before turning off the lights at night can give them the energy they need to be at their best the next day.
- Remember, food is fuel.
Research shows that children who eat healthy, well-balanced meals perform better in school. With our busy, fast-paced lives, it can feel impossible to make time to prepare food when we’re already late for our next appointment. Making simple changes such as swapping fried for grilled chicken, fries for salad or fruit, and soda for water can boost your child’s performance and give them the energy they need for the day. Again, taking a few minutes to prepare ahead of time will alleviate stress in the moment and allow you to move quickly through your routine.
- Stay mindful of triggers.
Children who have experienced trauma may show signs of dysregulation when presented with a trigger. Triggers are situations that spark an intense emotional reaction that we carry as a response to trauma. Children may react to triggers that we don’t even know about, so it’s important to be empathetic and comforting to a child who needs extra support, not discipline, to get through the moment.
Starting the school year off right is important, and we are here to help. For other tips and support around navigating the new school year, reach out to info@women4womenbk.org.
