Build confidence and reduce anxiety in your family

The end of the holidays often brings a mix of emotions for families. While there may be excitement about new opportunities, the prospect of the first day of school or daycare can trigger anxiety in both parents and children. Here’s how to navigate these changes and set your family up for a smooth and confident start to the year.

Understanding Back to Daycare and School Anxiety

Starting a new school year or daycare can be daunting for children. They may worry about making friends, meeting new Teachers or Educators, or adjusting to a new environment. Similarly, parents may feel anxious about how their child will cope or whether they’ll settle in well. Recognising and addressing these concerns early can make all the difference in reducing your child's anxiety relating to school or daycare.

Tips for Easing the Transition

Talk About It

Encourage open conversations about the upcoming changes. Ask your child how they feel about starting school or daycare, and reassure them that it’s normal to feel a little nervous.

Share positive stories about your own experiences to help them feel excited.

Visit the School or Daycare in Advance

If possible, take your child to visit their new school or daycare before the first day. Familiarising them with the environment can help ease fears of the unknown.

Meet the Teacher, Educators, Centre Manager or key staff members to create a sense of familiarity.

Establish a Routine

Start adjusting your child’s sleep and meal schedule to align with school or daycare hours at least a week before it begins.

Create a morning routine that’s consistent and calm to help reduce stress.

Practise Independence

Encourage your child to practise skills they’ll need, like packing their bag, putting on their shoes, or eating lunch from a lunchbox.

Allow them to make small decisions, such as choosing their outfit or selecting their stationery, to build confidence.

More tips to make the transition to Daycare or School easier

Focus on Positives

Highlight the exciting aspects of school or daycare, such as meeting new friends, engaging in fun activities, or exploring new toys and learning materials.

Create a countdown calendar with fun stickers or activities to build anticipation.

Stay Calm and Positive

Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. Try to stay calm and project confidence, even if you’re feeling nervous.

Use positive language when discussing school or daycare and avoid emphasising potential challenges.

Use Stories and Play

Read books about starting school or daycare to help your child visualise the experience and understand what to expect.

Role-play common scenarios, like drop-off routines or asking a teacher for help, to boost their confidence.

Build Connections Early

Arrange playdates with classmates or other daycare attendees if possible, so your child can start with familiar faces.

Join parent groups or school communities to build your own support network.

Supporting Yourself as a Parent

It’s natural to worry about your child’s transition, but taking care of your own well-being is just as important:

Practise Self-Care: Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge.

Stay Informed: Familiarise yourself with the school’s or daycare’s policies, schedule, and staff to ease your concerns.

Communicate: Reach out to teachers, carers, or staff if you have specific worries about your child’s transition.

When to Seek Extra Support - Dealing with School Anxiety

If your child’s anxiety persists or escalates, consider seeking support from a counsellor or child psychologist. Professional guidance can provide tools to help your child manage their feelings and build resilience.

Embracing the New Chapter

The start of a new school year or daycare experience is a significant milestone for both children and parents. By preparing early, staying positive, and focusing on connection, you can help ease the transition and set the tone for a successful and enjoyable year ahead. Remember, this is an opportunity for growth, learning, and wonderful new experiences for the entire family.

Some additional resources that might help include "How to prepare for back to school: Tips for Parents" | "5 tips on going back to school stress free"