Back to School

By Becca Barcom, LCPC

As summer winds down, the change of seasons is often met with mixed emotions from kids and parents alike. After getting into the swing of a summer routine, it’s time to change again! While the start of school might be “out of sight, out of mind”, preparing for the shift can be helpful for the entire family.

First, discussing the end of summer can help tie up any loose ends that you hoped to accomplish during the summer time. Consider creating a summer memory list to note favorite activities, places, or things your child (and you) experienced. Is there anything missing from the list? Check in with each family member to see if there are upcoming activities that are still possible to enjoy. Bringing awareness to the end of summer can ironically help you enjoy more summer fun.

Next, think of the way your family prefers to talk about emotions. How do you become aware of and feel your emotions? What thoughts, excitement, or fear do you have about the start of school? Children don’t process and talk about emotions in the exact same way as adults, so it can be beneficial to keep an eye out for ways your child may be expressing emotions about the start of school. By checking in with your own experience, you will be better able to be present with and help your child through their emotions.

Lastly, there are several ways to help your child adapt to the start of school. These following activities can be a helpful way for your child to experience the transition. 

Back to school ideas:

-Pack a lunchbox (that they might take to school) and go for a family picnic.

-Set up a special “homework station” that they can utilize once the school year starts. It doesn’t have to be fancy- a special pencil cup, file folder, and some headphones can be a good place to start.

-Visit the school as a family either on your own (to play on the playground) or through school visit programming. Some schools have “back to school nights,” encouraging your child to check out their classroom as a family.

-Plan and create a special first day of school breakfast. Allow your child to choose one of their favorites. 

If your family would like support adjusting to these and other life transitions, reach out to Montana Center for Somatic Psychotherapy; we are here to offer help to you and your child.