Guest Blog Written By: Dr. Jen Cisternino Naturopathic Doctor
School is just around the corner. This may make you feel anxious, excited, afraid, happy or sad. How do you feel? This time of year can make many people feel stressed and anxious as they prepare themselves and their children for school. The transition from summer to school does not have to be stressful. Here are some tips to help you and your child ease your way back into school.
Tips to help ease stress for PARENTS:
- Get ORGANIZED at least one week before school. This includes cleaning the kids rooms, tidying up their play area and also creating a “HOMEWORK” Zone that is fun and appealing for the kids. If possible, organize the kids closets and drawers so that they can easily dress themselves in the morning- with a quick look over by a parent ofcourse.
- Shop ONLINE for back to school clothes and supplies. Do this sooner than later. This can alleviate stress and save time for end of summer fun.
- If you tend to WORRY about your children in school and this time of year brings you stress and anxiety, focus on the time YOU may have as a parent to NOURISH yourself. Whether that is starting a yoga class, new eating plan, acupuncture or having more time for socializing. Remember, children feed off your energy and vitality. If you are stressed out, they will feel that. Aim to stay cool, calm and collected. Reach out for help.
- Try COLOURING Books for adults. Although this activity can help your child with focus, concentration and anxiousness, it is great for adults as well. Great activity to do with your children. You can all benefit!
Tips to help ease stress for KIDS:
- Get your kids on a routine at least one week before school starts. Set times for bathing and bedtime. Getting sound sleep is important for your child’s energy, mood and focus. Reading bedtime stories or playing calming music may help some children who are anxious. A hug and a kiss goodnight accompanied by “I LOVE YOU” soothes any child’s soul.
- Talk to your children about how they feel about starting school. If you notice that your child is anxious (stomach aches can be a sign) try to ascertain why. Try to help them focus on the positives of going to school. ie. meeting new friends, gym class, seeing your favorite teacher or anything that may have been memorable for them. This is important as children don’t always know how to express themselves. Taking the time to speak calmly and openly with them is important.
- Get your kids involved in picking their favorite knapsack and lunch bag. Picking their favorite superhero may give them more confidence and excitement about going to school.
- Take your kids grocery shopping with you. Make them a part of their lunch and snack picking. No parent wants their children coming home with a full lunchbox and you know how important fueling the mind and body is. One good treat, one not-so-good treat. Everything in moderation.
- Aim to start weaning kids off summer treats which may include a lot of sugar, fats, additives and preservatives. This can help ease anxiousness and hyperactivity in children.
- Leave your child a note each day in their lunchbox. It could be a funny picture or sweet message. “Have a nice day :)”. “Mommy and Daddy love you”. “Can’t wait to hear about your day”. “Keep smiling”. Little messages from a parent can make a child feel connected and calm.
If you find these tips helpful please share! Another parent or child may benefit and start school with more ease and happiness because of you.
Wishing you a healthy and happy school start. Here for all your health needs.
For more from Dr. Jen Cisternino Naturopathic Doctor
and to book a free 15 min consult be sure to check her out online,
“LIKE” her on Facebook and “FOLLOW” her on Instagram!