New School Year, New Self-Care Routine for Kids
How parents can help their children adjust, unwind and reconnect after school
The start of a new school year can be a whirlwind for both kids and parents. While your child may be excited about new teachers, friends, and school supplies, the transition back to the school routine can also bring a bit of anxiety.
As Dr. Emir Costello, Program Director of ROWI Kids – Tustin, says, “It’s completely normal and expected for kids to be extra sensitive and have more meltdowns in the first few weeks of the school year. They are in a new environment with a new teacher and new students, following new rules. They are exhausted. When they get home, their parents are their safe space to unleash all those pent up emotions.”
While it can also be stressful for parents to navigate these big emotions at the start of the school year, parents play a crucial role in helping their child navigate this change smoothly. In this post, we’ll share tips to make the adjustment easier and ensure that after-school time is both relaxing and reconnecting for the whole family.
Unwinding and Reconnecting After School
Establish a Relaxing After-School Routine
When school lets out, create a calm, routine time for your child to unwind. This could be a quiet snack, a little downtime with a favorite book, or some unstructured play. Letting them relax before jumping into homework or extracurriculars helps them transition more smoothly from school mode to home mode.
Set Aside 10 Minutes for Undivided Attention
It may be tempting to jump right into extracurriculars, chores, or homework right when you and your child get home, but resist the urge. Instead, dedicate 10 minutes to sitting with your child to talk about their day, give them a hug and regulate their bodies. This practice can be grounding for both parents and their children and sets the tone for the rest of the evening.
Encourage Play and Physical Activity
After a day of sitting in classrooms, kids often need to move around. Encourage them to play outside, join a sport, or even just go for a walk with you. Physical activity is not only great for their health but also a fantastic way for them to de-stress and boost their mood.
Plan Family Time
Make it a priority to spend quality time together as a family. Whether it’s a board game, a cooking session, or ice cream outing, these moments help strengthen family bonds and give your child a chance to share their day in a relaxed environment.
Introduce Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness can be an effective way to help your child unwind. Simple techniques like deep breathing, gentle stretching, or even a short meditation can help them relax.
Support Their Hobbies and Interests
Encourage your child to spend time on activities they love, whether it’s drawing, playing an instrument, or building with Legos. Pursuing hobbies provides them with a creative outlet and a way to unwind after the day’s demands.
Have a Tickle Session
As the saying goes, “Laughter is the best medicine,” and research backs up that age-old sentiment. Laughter is one of the proven ways our bodies complete a stress cycle. So the next time you feel disconnected or you sense your child might be a little more anxious, break out the tickle monster!
Prioritize Good Sleep Habits
A good night’s sleep is crucial for your child’s overall well-being. Ensure they have a consistent bedtime routine and a comfortable sleep environment. Limiting screen time before bed and encouraging relaxing pre-sleep activities like reading can help them get the restful sleep they need.
Balance Homework with Downtime
Help your child find a good balance between homework and relaxation. Break homework into manageable chunks and include short breaks to keep them focused and prevent burnout. A balanced approach helps them stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.
Keep the Lines of Communication Open
Encourage your child to share their feelings about school. Create a routine where you ask about their day during dinner or bedtime. Keep the conversations casual and low pressure. Ask what they’re looking forward to and any worries they might have. Sometimes, just knowing you’re there and sharing what’s on their mind can ease their anxieties.
Wrapping It Up
Adjusting to a new school year can be a big change for kids, but with support, you can make the transition smoother and more enjoyable. By establishing routines, fostering open communication, and making time for relaxation and family bonding, you’re setting the stage for a successful and happy school year.
Remember, every child is different, so be flexible and attentive to their needs as they adjust.
Some kids may need extra support on their way to a successful school year. If you’re concerned about your child’s meltdowns, ROWI is here to help. Sign up for a Free Assessment to see how we can work together to ensure that your child thrives.