Editor’s Note: This post was created using content from our prior blogs posted 8/8/2023 and 9/1/2023

It’s that time of year again where students and parents across the country are making the transition from being in summer mode to going back to school. While things are in full swing when it comes to getting school supplies and remembering a class schedule, the feelings of anxiety and stress can come early if one does not know what to do if not fully prepared. It can be a lot to handle, but luckily, we are here to provide many tips and tricks to help make the transition easier for the new school year.

Organization is Key

Everyone’s lives tend to become busier once kids are back in school. Not only because of trying to keep up with homework assignments, but also because of club meetings, sports team practice, and other various group activities. Implementing a calendar into the family can be beneficial; it can be used to track the kids’ school activities as well as help parents figure out what to prepare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Juniper Center clinician Christina Vargas suggests “several weeks before school starts, start implementing kiddos’ before and after school routine, so that they get acclimated to that schedule again. From wake up time, morning hygiene, breakfast, and bedtime routine, starting to reintroduce the schedule early will go a long way.”

Ask Your Child Questions

Anxiety can occur to a student because they may be nervous about trying out for the sports team, may need extra help studying for an upcoming test, or wondering who to sit with at the lunch table. Parents, if you notice your child is having trouble in school and may show signs of feeling anxious or distressed, don’t be afraid to ask them questions. It can lead to a conversation with your child and that can help build up their confidence and help them achieve their goals. Cleo Caudillo, a clinician at the Juniper Center, states that “Parents may notice behavioral issues, mood swings, or changes in attitude when children struggle to communicate with their words. This is an opportunity to check in with them. Different ages may require different approaches to the mental health challenges children can have during the school year.”

Take a Break and Have Fun

During the week, things can become very hectic with school and work life for both students and their parents. However, if the weather is still nice out on the weekends and everything has been taken care of, make an effort to enjoy some quality family time. Take a chance to ride bikes in the local forest preserve, enjoy a nice family dinner together at your favorite local restaurant, or play a couple of board games. Getting the chance to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the week can help put things at ease and prepare for the upcoming week. It also gives parents and children a chance to catch up on how things are going and to help provide solutions together as one.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

No one should have to face the daily struggles of school alone since there are probably other kids and parents going through similar situations. There are plenty of parenting Facebook groups that parents can be a part of to connect with other parents and provide solutions to help each other out with anything they may be having trouble with. Taking the time to be there for your child and helping them get the resources they need to succeed can lead to a great school year. For example, if they are struggling with a particular subject in school, finding a tutor that can help their child learn the material in a new and exciting way can reduce stress they may feel towards that subject. Margo Jacquot states “if your child is struggling, you and they are not alone. While this time of year has always been a challenge for some, more kids are experiencing anxiety and depression than ever before.  If your child needs extra help, or if you need support, we are here for you. What matters to you, matters to us.”

The Juniper Center is a great resource for your kids if they are having a hard time adjusting to the new school year. Please feel free to give us a call at 847-759-9110, extension #2, or visit our website at www.thejunipercenter.com. We are here for you!