Delisa E. Guadarrama, MD
Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Medical Director
DHR Health Counseling and Psychiatry Center
The end of summer is in sight, and while some children are looking forward to returning to school or getting their back-to-school supplies and clothes, for others, it can be a daunting experience. Returning to school does not have to be a negative experience if we can anticipate the struggles that may arise and structure situations so kids (and parents) feel more comfortable.
Get back into the routine. Start settling into school life before the first day of school. You can start by slowly readjusting your children’s sleep schedules, wake-up time, and breakfast/lunch/dinner time, getting some exercise, and practicing a hygiene routine. Another difficult but important aspect is limiting access to their tablet, phone, and television, especially at night and before bedtime. We often assume kids eat and sleep well, but these basic daily activities can set a child up for success or failure in the first weeks of school.
Remember to focus on the positive. Parents are often worried about their kids’ social life or grades because they want them to make good friends, be happy, and do well academically. While all of that is important, direct questioning can make anxious kids even more anxious or irritable. Tip: At the end of the school day, talk with your children about three good things they achieved that day. Help them think about what those good things say about them as people.
Patience. Sometimes we think kids are more resilient than they are and should be able to adapt to a new grade, new school, new schedule and new people easily. However, just because kids might make headway over the summer in their behaviors, mood, or anxiety level, this does not mean it will be a fantastic first day or week. Set your expectations appropriately and be ready to work with school staff and teachers. There may be trying days, but focus on overall progress and long-term improvement.
Do not ignore problems. You are your children’s strongest advocate. If you see them struggling academically, emotionally. or socially, please reach out to school support staff and/or teachers. Contact their primary care doctor or obtain an appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist at DHR Health Counseling and Psychiatry Center. There is a new national crisis line; just dial or text 988 to reach trained counselors who can help you and your child cope with a mental health emergency.
DHR Health Counseling and Psychiatry Center
2821 Michael Angelo Dr.
Suite 204
Edinburg, TX 78539
Tel: (956) 362-8290
