5 Ways to Ease Parenting Anxiety at the Start of the School Year
For many parents around the country, back to school is either just around the corner, or your kids have already started for the year.
Either way, you might be feeling some anxiety about the upcoming school year.
It’s perfectly normal to be a little anxious about letting your kids head to school every day, whether they’re going to kindergarten for the first time or this is the first year they can actually drive themselves.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to ease parenting anxiety at the start of the school year.
Being able to de-stress and let go of your anxiety will benefit both you and your kids.
1. Practice Self-Care
You want to set a positive example for your kids.
They can pick up on your anxiety more than you might realize.
So, prioritize your mental health by practicing self-care every day.
Things like deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, and journaling are all great ways to de-stress and take care of your mental well-being.
Incorporate these things into your daily routine, and you’ll set a good example while fighting back against anxious thoughts.
2. Boost Communication
If you’re struggling with anxiety about the school year for a specific reason, lean on your resources at the school.
Establish an open line of communication with your child’s teacher and/or administrators.
It’s okay to express your concerns and worries.
You and your child’s teachers should feel like a team, all working together for the best interest of the student.
Being able to talk to them and find reassurance can make a big difference in how you feel.
3. Listen to Your Child’s Concerns
Maybe your anxiety about the school year is stemming from your child’s concerns.
It’s not uncommon for kids to worry about what the school year might bring.
Listen to them and let them know their thoughts and feelings are valid.
Then, do what you can to provide comfort and reassurance.
It might be helpful for both of you to visit the school before the first day.
Or, try to meet the teacher before class starts.
Anxiety grows when things feel uncertain.
Having reassurance and knowing what to expect ahead of time can provide a sense of comfort to you and your child.
4. Focus On the Positive
Even if you’re worried about the upcoming school year, it can help to develop an attitude of optimism.
Think about the things your child is going to learn. Consider how much you like their teacher.
You might even be grateful for a bit of free time during the day that you can use to take care of your well-being.
Negative thoughts tend to breed more anxiety.
So, try writing down a few positive things about the new school year to remind yourself to stay optimistic, even when things are hard.
5. Spend Time With Your Child
While the school day certainly takes up a large chunk of time, you still have plenty of opportunities to connect with your child every day outside of school.
Take advantage of that time.
Have a conversation over breakfast before school.
Have dinner together every night.
Play a board game or talk before bed.
These small moments of connection are great opportunities to share, listen, and bond.
They can make you feel better about your child’s well-being, give your child a chance to open up in a safe environment, and provide reassurance about the year ahead.
Don’t let parenting anxiety at the start of the school year cloud the experience for you or your child.
If you’re still struggling, consider reaching out for help.
Sometimes, talking to someone is the best first step you can take when it comes to anxiety.