March 29, 2024

Take the Stress out of Back-to-School

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School stress is a reality. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that “too much work and too little play could backfire down the road because we are seeing a generation of students who appear to be manifesting increased signs of depression, anxiety, perfectionism, and stress”. Competition to succeed can force some children to avoid school, fall behind in classes, or even drop out altogether. There are things parents can watch for to help reduce a child’s anxieties.

Watch for signs: You know your child better than anyone. Watch for signs that your child may be stressed. Young children may complain of stomach aches, headaches, or simply try to get out of going to school. Older students may make casual comments that really suggest a feeling of hopelessness or despair. In some extreme cases, children resort to hurting themselves in ways such as cutting to relieve stress.

Teach time management skills: Organizational skills are crucial to help reduce stress from an early age. Spreading out tasks over a week-long period, for instance, often seems more manageable than “cramming” all at once. It is important to budget time for homework AND for recreation. Introduce the idea of using a planner/calendar to keep track of assignments.

Stress-relieving homework tips: Create a check-list and have your child check off each item when complete. Work with teachers as they may post homework and test schedules to school website calendars. Add these dates and assignments with your child to the planner/calendar. Talk to your child to prioritize homework and study time. Students and parents can also explore on-line resources on school websites. Keep in touch with teachers and administrators, especially if your child is struggling, and research the availability of homework clubs, math clubs, science clubs, tutoring, etc. Finally, keep a designated homework area that is neat and quiet and free from distractions like video games, television, etc.

Manage your child’s total schedule: Whether you are an adult or a child, over-scheduling is a huge contributor to stress. Striking a balance between school, homework, sports, and other extra activities will give your child appropriate time to accomplish what needs to be done with what he or she would like to do. Being on-the-go may be normal for some children, but most need downtime to play and “just be kids.”

Encourage family time: Children should enjoy regular meals, exercise, play time, a good night’s sleep, and time to spend with family members and friends. Mealtimes are great opportunities to review the day and discuss issues that may be bothering your child. Try to ask open-ended questions that ensure more than a one-word answer.

Be mindful of parental pressure: We all want what is best for our children, and the pressure to succeed in school, be accepted by the best colleges, and go onto the best paying job can be overwhelming. Competition is fierce and we don’t want our children to fall behind.

But, as parents, we need to balance the support and encouragement to succeed with the long term goals of health, happiness, and security. When asking about school, try not to focus solely on the grades, but on what was learned that day, what happened that was exciting or funny, or what interested your child most. It is important to realize that a few low test scores here and there will not implode your child’s future.

The most important ways to help your children minimize school stress are to be there for them, keep the lines of communication open with them and with the school, encourage them to do their best, and not lose sight of the fact that they are still children, who need to enjoy life. A balanced approach is the true key to their success in life.

Access to Care When You Need It:

East Bay Center clinicians are available by scheduled appointment or through the Center’s “Walk-in” model of care to assist adults, children, and their families through any number of complicated issues. Conveniently located in East Providence on the Wampanoag Trail, help is just around the corner. We encourage you to visit our website at www.eastbay.org for information regarding services, employment, locations, etc. To speak to someone regarding services or to schedule an appointment, please call 401-246-1195 and ask for “Intake.” Special thanks to the American Academy of Pediatrics and WebMD for some of the information contained in this article.

school, stress, child, mental health, addiction, east bay center,

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