Change is in the air. Summer is waning and the morning air carries a hint of fall.
With it comes the new school year, which can be exciting and worrisome at the same time.
I guess the ambiguity of returning to school after the summer break has always been present, but my impression is that there are more issues to contend with in our modern society.
Of course, the question persists: “Was it really simpler in the good old days, or did we not recognize the stressors that existed then as now?”
The answer eludes, but we are definitely aware of the many issues and pressures that students of all ages are facing in our current society.
Awareness is really the key for parents when supporting their child’s return to school.
Information and understanding are your best tools when navigating any situation, so it may be helpful to review some of the challenges students could be facing as they approach the new school year.
Children who are changing schools for a higher grade or attending a new school after a move may have adjustment difficulties.
Change is hard for most people and for children, change can be a disruption to their feeling of security.
Change can feel like loss. Loss of old friends, favourite teachers, familiar settings.
The need to quickly adapt can be challenging and we don’t all adapt at the same pace. This can result in frustration and a loss of confidence.
The need to fit in is paramount in the life of a child or youth.
Peer acceptance is critical. Belonging is one of our basic needs and to be left out or left behind is a painful experience.
This can be pretty scary stuff, especially trying to deal with an additional layer of stress that is social media.
Demands on time, energy and conformity can create a level of anxiety in children and youth that is well beyond that of previous generations. In addition, there is a pressure to adopt the current trends.
An alarming reality for parents is the recent trend for cutting and sexting.
The challenges are many but so are the positives related to the school environment. You can mitigate the challenges by setting a positive tone.
The first step is to create a safe and supportive environment.
Highlight the meeting of old and new friends and the activities, especially team activities, that are available for all grades.
Encourage your child to connect with extracurricular programs at school and suggest opportunities such as art, photography, writing and others specific to your child’s interests.
As parents, your attitude is noted by your children even if it doesn’t seem obvious.
Promote mental wellness by encouraging healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, healthy snacks and talking things through.
One last thing, you are the parent, not the best friend. Be the responsible adult in the relationship.
Children need boundaries and structure and pushing back is part of their healthy development.
Deborah Joyce is a psychotherapist with a practice in Powell River and Comox Valley. For more information, go to deborahjoyce.ca
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