Help your child establish a support system.
It’s great if your child comes to you for advice on any and every topic. But some children may feel like they can’t have deep discussions with their parents. Help your child create a list of family members and teachers that can step in and give trustworthy advice when needed.
You can also reach out to friends from their previous school year or arrange playdates with classmates they’ll see again. Reconnecting with familiar faces can help ease the fear of the unknown.
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Expose your child to school in small doses.
Dropping off your little one at kindergarten can be frightening if they haven’t had any exposure to school before. If your child didn’t attend preschool, find some extracurricular activities that could get your child acclimated to the social elements of a classroom setting.
It may also help to arrange a visit to the school before the academic year starts. Walking through the hallways, locating classrooms, and meeting teachers can help alleviate some of the unknowns and reduce anxiety associated with the new environment.
A consistent daily routine provides a sense of predictability that can ease anxiety, but remember to start small so you don’t overwhelm your child. For example, you can gradually adjust their sleep schedule and meal times to align with the school routine. Having a structured plan can help reduce uncertainty.
If your child’s stress is particularly intense, consider creating a transition plan. Start with shorter visits to school, gradually increasing the duration until they feel more comfortable.
Involve your child in back-to-school preparations. Let them choose their school supplies, backpack, and even their first-day outfit. This sense of ownership and control can boost their confidence and excitement.
Speak with a therapist.
If your child’s school refusal continues for more than a couple of weeks, it may be best to speak with a therapist. There could be some other event that triggered your child’s anxiety about school that only a professional can detect and help treat.