We see it every August as parents of school-aged kids. The new school year is just around the corner, and that can be a time of excitement, anxiety, or a mixture of both for kids. As a pediatrician, I know that it’s important to help kids prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the upcoming school year.
It’s common for the following challenges to occur during the summer months:
Mental Challenges
- Loss of routine: When kids don’t have a regular routine, it can be hard for them to stay on track with their schoolwork and other activities. This can lead to feelings of boredom, restlessness, and lack of motivation.
- Increased screen time: With no school or other structured activities, kids may spend more time watching TV, playing video games, or using social media. This can lead to problems with attention, sleep, and weight gain.
Physical Challenges
- Weight gain: Kids who are more sedentary during the summer may be more likely to gain weight. This is especially true if they’re eating more unhealthy foods and not getting enough exercise.
- Dehydration: Kids are more likely to get dehydrated during the summer because they’re sweating more. This can lead to headaches, fatigue, and other problems.
- Sun exposure: Too much sun exposure can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, and other health problems. It’s important to make sure that kids wear sunscreen and protective clothing when they’re outside.
Emotional Challenges
- Lack of social interaction: Kids who don’t have enough social interaction during the summer may feel lonely and isolated. This can lead to problems with self-esteem and emotional regulation.
- Boredom: Kids who are bored may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance use or delinquency.
- Sadness: Some kids may feel sad or depressed when summer ends and they have to go back to school. This is especially true if they’ve had a difficult year or if they’re not looking forward to the upcoming school year.
Here are a few tips to help your children de-stress if anxious about the upcoming school year:
Mental Coping
- Talk to your kids about their feelings. Some kids may be excited about the new school year, while others may be feeling anxious or nervous. It’s important to talk to your kids about their feelings and reassure them that it’s normal to feel a little bit nervous.
- Help your kids set realistic goals. Talk to your kids about what they want to achieve in school this year. Help them set realistic goals that they can work towards.
- Create a positive mindset. Help your kids focus on the positive aspects of the new school year. Talk about all the fun things they’ll be doing, such as making new friends, learning new things, and participating in extracurricular activities.
- Help your kids develop good study habits. Help your kids create a study schedule and teach them how to manage their time effectively.
- Help your kids develop coping mechanisms for stress. Teach your kids healthy ways to cope with stress, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and talking to a trusted adult.
Physical Help
- Make sure your kids are getting enough sleep. Most kids need about 10-12 hours of sleep per night.
- Encourage your kids to eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet will help your kids stay nourished, energized and focused throughout the day.
- Get your kids moving. Exercise is important for physical and mental health. Encourage your kids to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
Emotional Support
- Create a supportive environment at home. Make sure your kids feel loved, supported, and accepted.
- Be patient and understanding. The transition to a new school year can be difficult for some kids. Be patient and understanding with your kids as they adjust to their new surroundings.
- Talk to your kids about bullying. Bullying is a serious problem, and it’s important to talk to your kids about it. Teach your kids how to identify bullying and how to deal with it.
I hope these tips help you help your kids prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for the new school year. Remember, the most important thing is to be supportive and understanding. With your help, your kids will have a successful school year.
Additional Tips
- Take your kids to visit their new school before the first day. This will help them get familiar with the surroundings and meet their new teachers.
- Help your kids pack their backpacks and get organized. This will help them feel more prepared and in control.
- Set a good example. Show your kids that you value education, social interaction and that you’re excited about the new school year.
- Be there for your kids. If they’re feeling anxious or nervous, be there to listen and offer support.
I hope these tips help you and your kids have a successful new school year!
127 Pediatrics Cares
If you are looking for a pediatrician that is on call for your family and sees sick kids quickly look no further than 127 Pediatrics. Dr. Wadley is accepting a limited number of new patients.
© 127 Pediatrics; August 2023
This article exists for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.
Dr. Andrea Wadley is the owner, pediatrician, and breastfeeding medicine specialist for 127 Pediatrics. She has an established house-calls-only concierge pediatric practice in Colleyville, TX. She is also the owner and operator of the 127 Pediatrics Online Breastfeeding Medicine and Education Center.
