Back to school anxiety can affect parents and children alike. With the Covid 19 pandemic, parents worry about their kids’ safety while away at school. A parent’s role is to try and reduce stressors, but that can be difficult when you too are anxious about the kids’ health, the required finances, and changed schedules. Here are ways to overcome stress.
Buy School Supplies in Advance
Last-minute shopping can be very stressful for parents, especially if you have not set some money aside for the exercise. Early shopping enables you to research the best offers and discounts available and lower prices.
You’ll also buy the items such as school headphones at your pace. You can plan to buy a few things every week until you purchase everything you need.
Prepare the Kids for the New Routine
Bed and meal times might have to change to accommodate the new routine. A week or two before school, start practicing the new schedule. The sooner the kids adjust, the easier it will be to move into the new routine. Explain to them why they need to change their everyday schedule and how it will benefit them.
Start an Exercise Routine
Exercise will reduce stress and increase focus in school. It doesn’t have to be a strenuous routine, just something that gets the heart rate up for 20 minutes, three times a week. Find activities you can do as a family or with friends.
You can walk to the park during weekend mornings or bike to the library on Saturday afternoons. Some simple routines in your living room, such as jumping jacks, jumping rope, or wall sits, can make a world of difference.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed
Research has shown that kids who limit their screen time to an hour before bed are less stressed. The blue light from screens keeps the brain awake, leading to stress and anxiety.
Eat Healthy Meals
Healthy meals are essential for people of all ages, including growing kids. Healthy meals provide the nutrients needed for cognitive function and to help children learn. Ensure your family eats at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, drinks lots of water, and eats whole-grain bread and cereals.
Adjust Your Schedule
Probably you’re used to a more relaxed schedule, but back to school means there are kids to drop, pick, do homework, and extracurricular activities to attend to. You might also have to wake up earlier than the kids and be the last to get to bed.
This can be overwhelming, especially when you have a demanding job and other responsibilities. Plan your time well and request assistance when feeling overwhelmed. It also pays to set some time aside to relax, concentrate on your needs and reenergize.
Kids attending school for the first time can be frightened and even suffer from separation anxiety. Validate their fears, reassure and help them adjust. You can take them to the school before starting the school year to feel the place, meet the teachers and get used to new routines. You can even promise the child a reward to encourage them to transition to the new schedule.
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