Children and young people benefit from encouragement and support when going back to school. Having their anxieties listened to is the first critical step to problem solving. Once you get to the heart of their concern, you can offer alternatives and together consider some solutions.
Start finding your routine again towards the end of the holidays. If possible, for young starters a visit to school and walking around it a day or two before can reduce the anxiety for both parent and child. Try and shop in advance for school uniforms and associated necessities, allowing you more time and less panic.
Invite some school friends over for a back to school gathering or encourage the child/young person to make contact by telephone with friends, which will allow the opportunity to reconnect and reduce some of the social anxiety associated with returning to school.
For further information and support, contact Debbie Elliot, Counsellor and Practice Manager, at Core Counselling Service: 4a, Castle Street, Stamford. PE9 2RA or call: 07871 585393 or e-mail: enquiries@corecounselling.com