Say it isn't so! Back to school time is met with varied emotions by parents and kids. Parents may hate to see their little ones go back because it is the start of more school time, homework, school activities and less one-on-one family time. Others may be looking forward to the schedule, furnished lunches, and quiet time in the house. Whereever you are on the spectrum - you are not alone, this is a bitter sweet time for most.
Remember that this can also be a bitter sweet time for our little ones too. Going back to school for some is a time of excitement - new friends and old, getting to take part in a sport or activity they have been wanting to experience, routine, and learning new things! For some little ones, though, you may see their anxiety levels rise as the start of school gets closer - why? Here are a few things to watch for:
1. Concerns about bullies: Check out a previous article with tips for kids on dealing with bullies HERE. Fear of going back to face a bully can build up over the summer and be stiffling for some children.
2. Concerns about clothes, etc: As an adult I don't care much about fashion, but this can be a valid concern for some kids in some schools where you have kids aware of styles and clothes. You can teach your children that value is on the inside and that helps, but remember that there are lots of options for amazing clothes at Goodwill and Consignment Shops - it does not have to be new and can still be trendy!
3. Academic concerns: This is a hard one, but being behind can be terrifying for a kid. Labels hurt and developmental delays and learning disabilities take so many forms that they can be unpredictable and difficult for a new learner. When letters on the page look different from how you imagine them in your mind it is hard. I heard someone describe a learning disability as similar to you, as an adult, writing with your non-dominant hand the entire day. If you think about that - you could physically do it, but it does not look like the handwriting you "see" in your mind, it takes much longer to get onto the page, and you are completely stressed out at the end of the day. For a child with developmental delays or learning disabilities this is their day...remember that and be compassionate at the end of the day when they finally get through the school day and have homework at home. For many this is a nightmare- so try to be a soft cushion for someone struggling.
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