The most impactful step parents can take during the back-to-school season

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As the summer days slowly come to an end, the excitement of a new school year approaches. However, for many students (parents too), this anticipation can be marred by the looming worry of back-to-school stress. 

The pressures of academic performance, social interactions, and the uncertainties of the future can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety and apprehension for many.

Back-to-school stress is not just a fleeting sentiment; it is a legitimate concern that can have consequences on a child’s well-being. Research published in Nature Human Behavior reveals that due to the COVID pandemic, children have fallen behind in their academic and social skills, missing out on approximately 35% of a normal school year’s worth of learning when in-person classes were halted.

dad and sons school

Back-to-school stress is a legitimate concern that can have consequences on a child’s well-being. (iStock)

Now, children not only have to make up for the learning loss but also lack the necessary skills to cope with this challenge. This, combined with the complex web of social interactions, explains why so many young minds are experiencing heightened levels of stress.

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International studies have shown that COVID policies have significantly impacted the mental health and behavior of children of all ages, from preschool to college. These policies have exacerbated issues ranging from hyperactivity to depression.

Recognizing the severity of these issues is the first step towards helping kids recover and overcome the stress associated with going back to school. Federal agencies have acknowledged the devastating effects of the pandemic on children. Addressing the learning loss requires a comprehensive and holistic approach, involving parents, teachers, schools, and communities working together.

As parents, one of the most impactful things we can do is to become more involved in our children’s learning and daily lives. Whether it’s sitting down and doing homework together or choosing the right school for our child, our active participation is crucial in ensuring they receive the support they need.

When given the choice, selecting the right school for our child increases our investment in their education. This engagement can lead to better student outcomes and a more supportive learning environment.

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In traditional public school systems, families are often limited to a single neighborhood school. School choice breaks down this geographical barrier and provides more personalized options, reducing the monopoly of one school over a student’s education.

School choice also allows parents and students to select an educational institution that aligns with their values, learning styles, and academic goals. This personalized approach can result in a more effective and enjoyable learning experience.

While school choice may not be available to everyone, educators should consider extending school days or offering weekend classes and summer programs to make up for lost instructional time. If these options are not provided, parents should seek out additional resources for their kids.

Furthermore, it is crucial to prioritize our children’s physical well-being by encouraging healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, limited screen time, and ensuring they get sufficient sleep. These factors have a direct impact on learning.

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It’s important to remember that addressing learning loss will be an ongoing effort that requires patience, flexibility, and adaptability. Creating an environment where kids feel supported, motivated, and empowered to learn is essential.

Parents play a crucial role in alleviating back-to-school stress. While it’s natural to have high expectations for our children, it’s important to balance them and foster intrinsic motivation that will have long-lasting effects. Academic performance should not be the sole determinant of a child’s worth. As parents, we must ensure our kids understand their unique talents, passions, and contributions to the community are just as valuable, if not more so. Encouraging them to explore extracurricular activities and pursue interests beyond the classroom promotes a comprehensive sense of fulfillment and purpose.

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Back-to-school stress is a significant challenge that requires our attention and compassion. By establishing a supportive and understanding environment at home and in school, we can help children effectively cope with academic pressures and social anxieties.

Together, we can ensure that the new academic year becomes a time of growth, resilience, and self-discovery for our children, setting the stage for a brighter and healthier future.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM DR. NICOLE SAPHIER


Reference

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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
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