Managing Back-to-School Jitters

Hello everyone! Welcome to another school year. It's so wonderful to have many students back in the building, and others participating remotely. Hopefully you and your family were able to fit some fun and relaxation into a summer that was challenging in many ways.

For many students, coming back to school represents the first time in many months that they will spend signifigant time separated from family and home. Students, as well as parents, may be experiencing some nerves and anxiousness. I wanted to pass along two brief articles and highlight the practical tips that they share.

How to Handle Separation Anxiety When Going Back to Work - UPMC Pinnacle (link)

Help your child cope with back-to-school jitters - HealthDay (link)

"As the most prevalent anxiety disorder in children under 12, separation anxiety is typically associated with kids. However, it's normal for everyone to feel nervous about occasionally being separated from the people they care about. Separation anxiety can affect anyone, including children, adults, and even animals. ...

Taking care of your own mental health is just as important as supporting your loved ones. In addition to practicing separation and talking with the people you're worried about leaving alone, you can begin to relieve separation anxiety by following these suggestions:

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating well and getting exercise can provide significant benefits for mental health. Although social distancing may keep you from going to the gym, seeking ways to stay physically active during COVID-19 could help relieve some of your anxiety.

Limit daily check-ins: You may be tempted to check in with your family members regularly throughout the day. A little texting is OK, but you should try to limit your daily check-ins to set times. Plan to call during your lunch break and put anxious thoughts aside as best you can for the rest of the day. ...

Keep calm: Parents need to lead by example. Slow down and give your family extra time in the morning so you aren't anxious and rushed. Teach kids to take deep breaths to calm themselves.

Start a healthy routine: A nutritious diet, exercise and good sleep are important. Children need a routine and a serene, structured schedule.

Keep informed: Parents need to know what is happening with the COVID-19 virus. Consult trusted health organizations and your local school district. Don't rely on social media alone.

Be sensitive and keep kids in the know: Talk with your child and be tuned-in to their thoughts, concerns and feelings. Answer their questions. Kids should know what you know so there are no surprises that can cause frustration.

Stay flexible: Avoid rigidity. Be aware of your child's expectations.

Talk with the teacher: Communicating with your child's teacher is important during these unusual and challenging times. Avoid pushing your child too hard as it could add more stress.

Look for warning signs: If your child's mood or behavior changes, or their sleeping and eating schedule is off, talk it over. If necessary, seek professional help."

Keeping homeroom teachers informed is vital. We want to support you and your student, so please let us know if they are having difficulties coming to school. We can work together to support them.

As always, I can be reached at the following:

Phone - (717) 558-8242

email - dhutches@caiu.org

Sincerely,

Dustin Hutcheson