Parents are advised not to stress over back-to-school season and listen to children's concerns.
When it comes to the back-to-school season, some mental health experts advise parents not to stress. Some kids can feel anxious about the new school year, which brings new teachers and new routines, while other students enjoy the change of pace. Shella Dennery, director of Boston Children’s Hospital Neighborhood Partnerships, said it is important for parents to allow kids to navigate the transition and the emotions it can create, while offering proactive support. "Is there a meet-and-greet you can do with the teacher in advance?" Dennery suggested. "Can they preview the classroom before the first day of school? Have they gotten together with some of their friends the week before to revisit?" She acknowledged parents often want to remove any stress from their kids’ lives but the new school year is a chance for kids to learn they can handle it. She advised parents to inform teachers about how their child copes with the transition and whether they may need more in-school support. Dr. Nicole Brady, chief medical officer of student resources for UnitedHealthcare, believes parents should be active listeners, allowing their children to share any concerns they might have about the year ahead. "Sometimes just listening can go a long way" Brady advised.
PSUC Research Project
