September 01, 2021
Back to School Top 10 Mental Health Tips
Guide For Parents
- Remind your child that they’re not alone.
Nearly everyone feels behind in school this year. Hang in there and just do your best!
- Help your child know what to expect.
Find out the school’s policies this year. What’s different about lockers, classrooms, lunch or anything else?
- Praise all your child’s efforts.
Life’s more than grades. Recognize their curiosity, kindness, and bravery.
- Pay attention to your own anxiety.
Kids can sense anxiety. Talk to other adults to ease worry and get professional help if you need it. Metrocare is here to help both you and your children with any mental health challenges. Call us!
- Get enough sleep.
Preschoolers need 11-12hours. School-aged kids need 10 hours. Teens need 9-10 hours.
- Schedule quality time together.
Just 1 hour makes a difference. Here’s a topic of conversation: What are you most excited about this year? What has been the best part of your first week back?
- Encourage daily movement.
Children need 1 hour of physical activity a day — riding a bike, a dance party, or whatever gets them moving! You can even do this together.
- Keep a routine.
Waking up and going to bed at the same time every day improves mental health. [This goes for adults too!]
- Identify ways to calm stress.
Taking deep breaths or holding something comforting in your hand (like a smooth rock) quielty relieves stress.
- Just ask!
Ask your child if they’re worried about being back in the classroom. Be a good listener and support them.
Source: Integral Care
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