Heading back to school can be both exciting and challenging for kids but having an open conversation about their feelings can help create a better understanding of what they may be experiencing. Connecting with children isn’t always easy, so here are a few tips that could be useful to help build and deepen connections.
Talk about what a back-to-school routine might look like and help them create a schedule. Establishing routines can build good habits and may also help reduce stress and anxiety.
Have a conversation about healthy coping strategies. While stress and worry are natural parts of life, avoiding stress or turning to unhealthy behaviors are not effective ways to cope. Consider brainstorming with your child healthy coping strategies such as:
- taking a walk
- journaling
- talking to a friend
- exercising
- listening to music
- creating art
- cuddling with a pet
Talk with your child about what they feel grateful for. Life may have its challenges, but emphasizing the positives can help them navigate tough moments. They might enjoy maintaining a gratitude jar or bulletin board to remind them of the good things in life.
Finally, ask them open-ended questions about their day and their experiences in school. Try to attend their school events whenever possible. This helps them to know they matter and may give you some insight into their experiences in school.
We also wanted to share one of our favorite resources for supporting trickier conversations. Preparing for these conversations before they happen makes them less stressful. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) “Talk, They Hear You” campaign provides fact sheets and resources to help parents and caregivers start these important conversations with the youth in their lives. Check out the 5 Conversation Goals for discussing alcohol and other drugs with kids. There’s even a mobile app that you can download so you’ll have conversation starters at your fingertips!