Going back to school can generate a mix of emotions in children, from excitement about reconnecting with their friends to anxiety about new academic challenges. It is a time of transition that can be overwhelming for both children and their parents. However, there are psychological strategies that can facilitate this process and improve children's adaptation to returning to school.
Create a routine and planning
One of the most important aspects of facilitating the return to school is establishing a clear and predictable routine. During vacations, it is common for schedules to relax and daily structure to be lost, so it is essential to resume healthy habits. It is advisable to establish regular sleep schedules, specific times for completing schoolwork and extracurricular activities, as well as leisure and rest times.
Tips for establishing a routine:
- Create a weekly schedule that includes time to study, play, play sports and rest.
- Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up time to ensure adequate rest.
- Promote autonomy children in carrying out their daily responsibilities.
Open communication and understanding
It is essential to maintain open and empathetic communication with children during this transition period. It is important to listen to their concerns, fears, and expectations regarding returning to school, giving them a safe space to express their emotions. Parents and caregivers should demonstrate understanding and support, validating their children's feelings and offering strategies to deal with situations positively.
Tips for effective communication:
- Actively listen to children without judging them or minimizing their emotions.
- Validate their feelings and provide emotional security.
- Offer practical advice and solutions to deal with school concerns.
Promote autonomy and responsibility
Going back to school is an excellent opportunity to promote autonomy and responsibility in children. Allowing them to participate in planning their daily routine, getting involved in organizing their school supplies, and encouraging decision making will help them feel more confident and competent. Independence in solving problems and assuming responsibilities strengthens self-esteem and self-confidence.
Tips to promote autonomy:
- Delegate tasks according to the age and abilities of children so that they feel useful and capable.
- Set achievable goals and reward achievements to motivate their autonomy.
- Provide support and guidance, but allow them to experiment and learn of their own mistakes.
Manage stress and anxiety
Going back to school can trigger levels of stress and anxiety in children, especially if they experience difficulties adapting to new academic or social challenges. It is important to teach them strategies to manage these emotions in a healthy way, such as practicing relaxation techniques, deep breathing exercises, positive visualizations and finding pleasurable activities that help reduce anxiety.
Tips for manage stress:
- Teach children relaxation techniques such as mindfulness or meditation.
- Promote the practice of physical exercise as a way to release tension and increase well-being emotional.
- Encourage creative and playful activities that allow them to express their emotions in a positive way.
Establish goals and motivation
It is important to help children to set realistic and motivating goals for the new school year. Goal setting gives them a sense of direction and purpose, stimulating their motivation and commitment to learning. It is essential to celebrate achievements, no matter how small, and recognize effort and perseverance as keys to academic and personal success.
Tips for setting goals:
- Define clear and achievable objectives in the short and long term.
- Create a system of rewards and recognition for achieving goals.
- Establish an action plan with concrete steps to achieve the goals. proposed objectives.
In conclusion, returning to school can be a complex period of adaptation for children, but with adequate support and the application of effective psychological strategies, it is possible to facilitate this process and contribute to the emotional and academic well-being of the little ones. The creation of routines, empathetic communication, the promotion of autonomy, stress management and motivation are fundamental aspects that parents and caregivers can work on to promote a successful and satisfactory transition to the new school year.