Back-to-School Anxiety: Tips for El Paso Parents and Students

As we continue to enjoy the summertime, it'll soon be time to go back to school in El Paso. But how do you handle the nerves and stress of anxiety caused by the thought of going back to school? With the help of child care experts, we have some friendly tips on dealing with "back to school anxiety".

Helpful tips for El Paso families on dealing with back-to-school anxiety

We talked to the Chief of Child & Adolescent Services from Emergence Health Network, Krista Wingate, and she's shared a lot of advice based on her 12 years of working with children. When explaining what "back to school anxiety" IS, Krista explains that it's basically getting used to a new routine. We have our morning/afternoon/evening routine and kids have their routines for school. When that routine is changed, kids tend to stress because of the new changes they have to adjust to; like meeting new people (leaving their friends behind) & having to go to a new place that they're unfamiliar with.

When the mention of school is brought up, & their child is showing signs of anxiety or stressed about GOING to school (or they SAY that they're stressed out), that might be a sign to talk to them directly or seek professional help with a mentor, a close friend or a professional.

Some indicators to look out for include: physical symptoms, like a headache, maybe a stomach ache, or even a difficulty going to the bathroom or if their child shows more signs of irritability.

To help curve these feelings, for children going to a new school (or kids MOVING to a new school out of town), Krista explains if their child connects to anyone at the new school, let them building those relationships with that person. It's also important to point out where the principal's offices is or a guidance councilor's office is, know where they are & who they can talk to so their child will have an easier time navigating the school.

Another tip is to "leverage online": find people who have posted pictures or videos of the school online so people can see what the school looks like.

If you have a child with special needs, for teachers & parents, remember they have strong emotions. It's important to know that their brain is squishy; their brain is still developing. Whatever strong emotions they show (like anger or sadness), they might not mean everything so be patient with them & reach out to others for assistance too.

Back-to-school anxiety affects everyone; from the students to the parents to the teachers to even the siblings and other members of family. Krista reminds us that if you feel overwhelmed by everything, it's important to take them for themselves. Whether it's going outside, spending time with friends/family, or take a couple of minutes for time for yourself.

The last thing to remember, that Krista, has told us is that "you're not alone. You can get through this". With the love and support of the people around you, you can and WILL get through this.

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