Back To School Anxiety: Parents Edition (Part II)

As I discussed yesterday, the transition to a new school year can trigger a lot of anxiety for parents.

In fact, for some families, it is more stressful for the parents than it is for their kids

Five strategies to overcome your own back-to-school anxiety:

1- Acknowledge your feelings

Tune in to your thought and feelings. Are you overwhelmed? If you ignore how you feel, you wont be able to overcome it. Keep in mind that change usually elicits anxiety, but if you are having trouble functioning, you might need to seek help from a professional.

2- Take Care of Your Self

Kids often mirror their parents behaviors. If you are stressed out, your kids will pick up on it, and act the same way.

Find some “ME” time everyday

Whether you need to exercise, meditate, take a nap, or read, find something that will re-energize you.

3- Set up for success

The more organized you are, the easier it is for everyone in the household.

• Plan meals and lunchboxes ahead of time
• Write down everyone’s schedule on a family calendar
• Keep up with the school calendar, emails, and teachers’ texts
• Teach your children to be independent with age appropriate chores

4- Delegate

You are only human and can’t do it all.

Don’t feel guilty about outsourcing some of your responsibilities

If hiring help is an option for you, consider talking to family and friends.

5- Find a mentor

Find a mom who’s kids are older than yours and is willing to help you.

Ask questions. Listen to her advice

She knows the teachers and the school demands. You might even become good friends in the process!

Please share with a mom who needs to read this.

LAMSA’s note: We would like to thank Dr Laracuente for her collaboration