The start of a new school year can be both exciting and stressful. The transition to new classes, meeting new teachers and classmates, adjusting to routines, and juggling responsibilities around anxieties presents challenges for students and parents alike. For families embarking on the new school year, CatholicCare Wollongong have put together the below tips and tricks.

Preparing for the New School Year

1. Establish a Routine: A consistent routine helps children feel secure and prepared. Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a few weeks before school starts to ease the transition. Develop a morning routine that works for your family, and consider using a morning routine chart for younger children to check off tasks as they complete them.
2. Set Goals Together: Encourage your child to set academic and personal goals for the school year. This can help them stay motivated and focused.
3. Organise School Supplies: Involve your child in shopping for school supplies and organising their backpack. This can help them feel more in control and excited about the new school year.
4. Prepare the Night Before: Organise clothes and prepare lunches the night before to reduce morning stress. Dedicate a space for school items to keep everything in one place.

Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Children

Strong family relationships are crucial for a child's success in school. Some practical tips and strategies to enhance family communication and support include:

1. Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication with your child. Ask specific questions about their day, such as "What was the best part of your day?" or "What did you learn today?" This helps them share more about their experiences.
2. Quality Time: Spend quality time together as a family. This can be as simple as having dinner together, playing a game, or going for a walk. Building rituals or traditions, like a special way to say goodbye in the morning or a family dinner, can strengthen bonds.
3. Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child's efforts and achievements. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and encourage them to keep trying.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

It's normal for children to feel anxious about the new school year. Managing these feelings and developing coping strategies allows children to understand and work through their emotions:

1. Identify Triggers: Help your child identify what makes them anxious about school. This could be anything from making new friends to handling homework.
2. Teach Relaxation Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and visualisation can help your child manage stress.
3. Stay Connected: Build a connection with your child's school staff, particularly their teacher. Communicate any concerns you may have and find out what additional services the school provides, such as a counsellor or wellbeing officer.
4. Self-Care and Wellbeing: Ensure both you and your child are getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and engaging in physical activity. These habits can be part of your routine and help manage stress. Remember to slow down and take time to rest and rejuvenate.

CatholicCare Wollongong is Here to Help

Starting a new school year is a significant milestone, and CatholicCare Wollongong is here to support you and your family. Our counselling services and strengthening relationships courses are designed to help you navigate this transition with confidence. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in making this school year a success.