Helping children and young people overcome back-to-school nerves
For many families across Norfolk and Suffolk, it will soon be time to set the morning alarm and prepare for the school run.
However, as the summer holiday draws to an end and a new school year begins, there will be children and young people who will find the change difficult, especially if they are starting a new school.
Dr Beth Mosely MBE, Clinical Psychologist at the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT), is offering parents guidance on how they can help their child or young person prepare by gradually reintroducing school-related routines, such as:
- Adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times week-by-week
- Visiting or walking past the school if anxiety is high
- Talking positively, but realistically, about the year ahead
- Reassuring your child that support will be there when they return
Dr Mosley said: "It's completely normal for children to feel nervous about going back to school, especially as the summer ends and the routine shifts. For some, it can feel especially big - starting a new class, meeting a new teacher, or moving schools. Parents often feel it too. Start gently reintroducing routines like earlier bedtimes, reading to them and regular mealtimes. Get your child involved in getting their uniform and school things ready - it helps them feel more in control. Most importantly, talk with your child about how they're feeling. Listen, reassure, and work together on any worries they have."
Families can also access online workshops, to help their child with back-to-school anxiety, on the NSFT's website.
If you're worried about your child's mental health and things aren't improving, reach out to your GP or visit the support pages on NSFT's website for further guidance.