Counselor’s Corner 

August 2024 

Getting kids ready to go back to school is not always an easy task. And when you think about it, why would it be? Back-to-school transitions can be really tough for kids. Starting a new school year can be scary, especially if kids haven’t been in a school building for a long time. But the key is to help make this transition smooth and gentle. If you’re not feeling prepared for the upcoming school year, don’t panic. Don’t lose hope. I’ve shared lots of ideas with families and teachers over the years. Here are some suggestions below and an article if you’d like more information (Easing in to Back to School Transition).

The Best Way to Ease the Back-to-School Transition

1 – Make and Practice a Goodbye Ritual: Plan how you and your child will say goodbye. Maybe it’s a big hug followed by a high five. Maybe it’s a quick secret handshake. Practice your goodbye ritual for brief separations, like when your child spends the afternoon with an aunt or goes to a dropoff playdate, so the ritual is familiar when it’s time for school.

2 – Do a Practice Run: If possible, make the walk or drive to school so that your child can see what the drop-off will look like.

3 – Read About It: Pick up some books to talk about the feelings surrounding separation. Llama Llama Misses Mama is a great story that illustrates some of the worries and panic associated with separation.

 The Kissing Hand provides a sweet strategy for families to use to help kids with separation anxiety. A kiss on the palm and a palm to the heart can remind kids that families love them even when they are apart!

4 – Stick to a Routine: Regular bedtime routines? Important. Predictable morning routine? Super important. Stick to a routine to give your child a comfortable schedule leading up to school. Make sure your child is on time for school so they can participate in morning routines too. Missing morning structure or instructions can leave your child feeling lost and more anxious. Finally, fill your child in on the daily schedule. Let them know when they can expect to see you again.

5 – Pack a Transitional Object: If possible, pack a small, familiar object to help ease the transition. Tuck a family photo in your child’s backpack or small object (maybe a string) in your child’s pocket as a reminder that they’re still loved and connected, even when you’re apart.

6 – Show Excitement: When you talk about school and the changes ahead, show your child that you’re excited! Instead of focusing on the separation with statements like, “I’m really going to miss you while you’re at school,” say things like, “It’s going to be so cool to get to do science experiments at school!” or “I can’t wait to hear about all the things you learn!” to let your child know that school experiences will be exciting and fun.

7 – Validate Feelings: If your child expresses some sadness or worry about going to school, validate their feelings and let them know it’s okay to feel that way. Redirect the conversation to things they can do if they feel worried at school, like grounding strategies or looking at that transitional item.

8 – Model a Positive Goodbye: Finally, when it’s time to say goodbye, do your goodbye ritual and then model a positive goodbye. Give your child a big smile with a confident posture, tell them you can’t wait to hear about their day, and then head out! Your child will pick up on your positive energy!

In other news, please keep an eye out for upcoming newsletters for more information on our first book club discussion on The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt. If you have not been able to read it then please feel free to read or listen to it if you can!  

As we start a new school year please don’t hesitate to contact me at mlazarus@wsesdvt.org or 802-387-5521 ext. 130  if I can help you in any way. 

Wishing you all my best!

Counselor Marisa