Welcome back to Term 3. Some families may be navigating back-to-school anxiety. Here is some helpful information from the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne on how to help your child/ren.

Back-to-school anxiety

Going to school is a fantastic way for your child to learn and develop life skills. However, it can also be a stressful place for some kids.

Starting, changing, and returning to school are major events for children. It is normal for your child to be nervous about these transition periods – even if they do not usually feel anxious. Planning can help manage any worried feelings they may have.

Helping your child start or return to school

Before school starts:

• Talk with your child about school in a positive and encouraging way.
• Ask your child how they feel about starting or returning to school. Be curious and empathetic, and avoid dismissing their concerns.
• Try to problem-solve any worries your child shares about school.
• Practice new tasks and routines before school starts, such as waking up at a set time, using a lunch box or catching public transport.
• Make sure your child knows who to ask for help at school and reassure them that their school is on their team.

Once school starts:

• Check in with your child regularly about their feelings and experiences at school.
• Discuss any strong emotions your child shares about school and work through challenges together.
• Address any concerns that arise throughout the year, such as health or learning support needs, bullying, boredom in the classroom, challenges with friendships, and feelings of not belonging.
• If required, speak to their teachers about how your child feels and ways to support them.

Some children have intense anxiety about school, which leads them to avoid going. School avoidance is a complex issue that often requires professional help to manage. It is not always caused by an anxiety disorder. If you think your child may have a problem avoiding school, speak to their teacher. Schools have support and trained staff members to help children who feel anxious or do not want to attend school. In many cases, schools can connect children to psychologists or counsellors.

You may also want to speak to a doctor or psychologist for advice.

Above information taken from:

Topic: Anxiety
In this edition of SchoolTV - Anxiety

Most young people today experience anxiety at some point in their life. Sometimes that slight rush of anxiety that occurs prior to an exam or sporting event, can enhance their performance. However, experiencing too much anxiety, over long periods of time, can be extremely damaging to their health and wellbeing. There is a difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ anxiety.

Statistics show, that the psychological health of young people today is far worse than it was a generation ago. This is having an adverse affect on children in both primary and secondary levels. Some of their issues of concern include stress, school, study, body image and friendship.

Parents need to be aware of the warning signs of ‘bad’ anxiety. There are preventative measures parents can implement as well as teaching kids the skills to cope more efficiently with their anxiety.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.