Be Mindful About Back to School Routines

It’s back to school season! You and your child(ren) are likely experiencing many different emotions during this invigorating time of year. While this transition can be joyful, it can cause some uneasy feelings too. It’s common to fear the unknown as we adjust family routines and get used to new schedules (and people!).

You can support your child in transitioning to this next adventure by focusing on two major things. First, name the emotions they might be feeling and remind them that it’s normal when going through a big change. Second, introduce mindful routines that will help put them at ease and ready to learn.

Talk about and normalize feelings.

Slowly introduce the idea of school to help them prepare for their new experiences. Share positive memories you have and talk about feelings openly and honestly. If your child shares that they are scared, you could say, “Sometimes we feel scared to try something new. What can we do when we feel scared to help us feel better?”

Create strong routines.

Consistent implementation of routines supports social and emotional learning by creating a sense of belonging, increasing independence and autonomy, and building a strong sense of identity. A sense of predictability concerning schedules and routines allows children to focus their efforts on learning. By inviting your child to participate, you’re helping them learn important skills that they can utilize any time they navigate something new or different.

Here are some strategies that invite children to be part of transitions:

• Be positive. Sing a song about school or draw a picture of what your child wants to do in the classroom. Be encouraging about facilitating a great experience.
  
• Practice. When a new routine is created, it takes time to learn it. Be patient as you settle into your back to school rhythm. Consistency and repetition are key! For example, wake up at the same time each morning and talk through each step necessary to get out the door on time. Make it fun!
• Keep it simple. Multi-step commands can be difficult for children to follow. Try breaking the task down. For example, say, “First, we need to get dressed.” Once that task is complete, move on to the next task. A visual aid providing a picture of each step can also be helpful when moving from task to task. Invite your child to point to what’s next and encourage them to lead the way.
  
• Think of solutions. Talk about what your child can do when they are away from home and feel nervous or scared. For example, if they feel nervous, they can hold a comfort item like a stuffed animal or family photo. If they feel scared, they can ask a friend or teacher for a hug.
• Read together. Books are a good way to initiate conversations and illustrate concepts such as feelings and emotions. They open the door to creating connections and understanding.
    - In My Heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek explores a full range of emotions and is enjoyable for all ages. Use this to help talk more about what their feeling.
  - First Day, Hooray! A Book of School Day Feelings by June Sobel is another great option to support your child as they work through their emotions about a new experience.
  

Recognizing and validating feelings, as well as creating strong routines will help you and your family adjust to heading back to school and build a strong foundation for the years ahead!