Top 10 Tips for Helping Anxious or Strong-Willed Kids with Back-to-School

Top 10 Tips for Helping Anxious or Strong-Willed Kids with Back-to-School

1. Create a Predictable Routine 🕒

   
   

   As we approach the back to school date , start to establish a consistent morning and evening schedule. This helps anxious kids feel secure and gives strong-willed ones a sense of control.

1. Acknowledge Their Feelings 💬

   
   

   It’s important to identify and  validate their emotions. Saying, "I understand you're feeling nervous," shows you’re listening and that their feelings matter. Look up EQ Emotional Intelligence activities for ideas on this . https://veryspecialtales.com/emotional-intelligence-activities-for-kids/

1. Set Clear Expectations ✅

   
   

   Be clear about what you expect in terms of behaviour, study habits, and bedtime.  Start having some short gentle but firm discussions before you get back into the fast paces of school, perhaps even a wall chart.  Strong-willed children thrive on knowing their boundaries.

1. Encourage Open Communication 🗣️

   
   

   Make sure your child knows they can talk to you about anything. This is really going to help in the teenage years!  Regular check-ins can help them feel supported and understood. Remember you don’t always need to “save them” and give them advice. They need to find out their own solutions.

1. Practice Relaxation Techniques 🌿

   
   

   Teach them simple breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques to use when they’re feeling overwhelmed. We use this a lot at KidooLand .. Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts and breathe our for 5 counts. It’s a great way to empower them.

1. Prepare Together 🎒

   
   

   Involve your child in getting ready for school—whether it’s picking out supplies or choosing their outfit. This can ease anxiety and give strong-willed kids a sense of control. You can also drive by their new school if they are changing so they are familiar before the big day.

1. Focus on the Positive 🌟

   
   

   Highlight the parts of school they enjoy, like seeing friends or favourite subjects. Shifting focus to the good stuff can ease back-to-school nerves.

1. Break Down Challenges 🧩

   
   

   Help them tackle big tasks by breaking them into smaller steps. This can make everything feel more manageable. Stepping stones is a simple but hugely effective technique.

2. Model Calm Behaviour 😌

   
   

   Children pick up on our emotions. We can’t emphasise this enough. You are their role model, if you use an anxious tone and get upset, so will they. Staying calm and composed , using a calm measured tone can help them do the same, even when they’re feeling anxious or defiant.

1. Provide Reassurance, Not Pressure 🤗

   
   

   Remind them it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. Reassure them they don’t have to be perfect—just trying their best is enough.

Things to think about in advance:

• What triggers my child’s anxiety or strong-willed behaviour and what steps can I put into place to reduce or avoid triggering them.

• How can I make my child feel more involved in their school experience?

• What does a serene Back to school look like to me? Journal it or do a vision board so you have a lovely image of this and work towards it.

  
  

Good luck and let us know how you get on!

Back-to-school