The start of a new school year brings a lot of emotions and change. Adjusting to it all isn’t easy, but there are three simple ways to make the transition process a bit smoother for your family.

  1. Stick to a routine!  Kids need routine and respond better when they know what to expect. Routine provides children with a sense of safety.
  2. Put away the electronics! We recommend parents stop the use of all electronics in the house (including TV) two hours prior to bedtime. Use this time for a bath, reading, prayers, etc. This gives a child’s brain time to relax. There should never be a TV in the child’s bedroom. The bright blue, red, and green light beams as well as screen lights stimulate a child’s brain and make it more difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.
  3. Model a positive attitude about school.  Parents have significant influence over a child’s feelings about school. A simple question like, “Who was your favorite friend today?” or “Tell me about something that made you smile today,” are simple prompts that begin healthy and positive conversations about the school day.

So often our children simply need us to be present, to listen, and to acknowledge their experiences.

So often our children simply need us to be present, to listen, and to acknowledge their experiences. The start of the school year isn’t easy for everyone, so be especially mindful of those having difficulty with change or transition; they may need an extra boost of encouragement and support. Speak life! Your words have the power to change their day. 

Need some help navigating these changes in your family? Our Building Families team can help! Learn more. 

 

by:  Katie Brophy, MSW, LISW-CP, LAC

Katie worked with children in foster care for the majority of her career and struggled to find them services that helped them become successful adults. Katie found her second career working in prevention services with Building Families at Thornwell after becoming involved in the legislative process and gaining a full understanding of how child welfare services are funded on a state and federal level. Building Families provides a distinct opportunity to help families so they don’t have to be involved in the child welfare system.

Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Practice Social Worker and approved Social Work Clinical Supervisor. Katie is a Certified Addictions Counselor II and a Licensed Addictions Counselor. She is also a Trust-Based Relational Intervention practitioner.