Back To School Jitters

Moms across the nation are kicking up their heels with utter joy as they anticipate the arrival of the first day of school.  Little tykes and teens may not be quite as ecstatic about their return to the classroom, however, with peer pressure on the rise, curriculum demands mounting yearly and parents expectations an all out stress factor to contend with. 


And let's face it ... it's kind of hard to get back into the swing of things when you've had two full months to sleep in late, not think about homework assignments, no strict routine to follow, enjoying lots of free time with friends and simply being care free. 

So as parents, how does one contend with the stress of dealing with renewed structure, the anticipation of beginning a new semester and making everyone happy?  Here are some suggestions that might help just a little:

(1) Spread the love and don't forget the affection.  We all need to know that someone cares for us and younger children especially suffer separation anxiety particularly.  Let them know how much fun school will and can be if they open themselves up to the experience.  Tell them you'll miss them while they're gone and can't wait to hear all about their day when they come home.  Take the time and ask them to show you what they learned.  Be animated for the little ones and show true interest for your older children.

(2) Set aside communication time.  It doesn't matter if they want to rant or cry ... let them have the floor.  Children need to know someone cares enough to listen, without jumping down their throats, without setting demands right away, without making snap judgments.  Let them talk already and get it out.  If they know they can open up and speak their mind, the lines of communication will never be broken and they will always come to you over the littlest concern or upset in their lives.

(3) Get them to write it out.  A journal starting at the earliest age is a healthy way for them to relieve their stress.  Match journals to their hobbies, personality or favorite cartoon/tv characters to make it fun.  Emphasize that what they write is personal and does not have to be shared unless they want to and RESPECT their privacy.  Get them into the practice of doing it at bedtime so they can jot down their thoughts and feelings about their day.

(4) Help them study.  Figure out a way to make it fun and not demanding.  Don't ridicule or chastise them if they get it wrong.  Reverse the roles and maybe have them write out a series of questions pertaining to what they need to learn and you answer them instead purposely giving the wrong answer no matter how silly or almost correct.  You'll be amazed how much this helps them and makes the session fun.

(5) A few times a year call an official day off surprise when you know it's not going to interfere with a test or important school event.  We do it, why not them?  A few mental health days will do a world of good, raise their spirits and create a wonderful bond.

(6) Organization from the get-go is key with any child at any age.  We all have a difficult time getting started in the morning.  Alleviate that stress by preparing the night before.  Set a schedule for doing homework, chilling out, texting/talking to friends.  Make sure their clothes are decided on, lunches made and book bags are ready the night before.

(7) Family time together is so very important.  Absent parents make for insecure children.  No one wants to hear your excuses.  They are kids for only a short while.  You make the adjustment and be there for them.  Eat together as often as possible and include them in the cooking process and planning the meal as well.  Involvement creates conversation.  Keeping up to date on their lives while teaching them how to cook creates a wonderful family atmosphere and bond.