Beat the Back to School Blues

Well, it’s September already and the kids are back at school – how’s it going so far? Many children thrive on routine, but the jump back from holiday freedom to classroom formality can still be a daunting time. Fear not though, at Footprints we’re here to help you and your children beat those back to school blues.

Firstly, it’s important to find out how your child is actually feeling. New teachers, new classrooms, exam pressures, bullying and separation anxiety are all things which can cause worry – and for foster children these come on top of so many other issues they’re already dealing with. Try to check in regularly so it becomes the norm and if they raise worries of any size, remember to always validate, never dismiss.

The ubiquitous, “Oh, it’ll be fine”, has rarely made anyone feel fine, but having our anxieties accepted and understood can do wonders.

After validation, action! In an age-appropriate way, work out with your child what they think might help them. Perhaps it could be finding out what will be happening in a lesson ahead of time, or sitting somewhere else so they don’t get distracted, or having a packed rather than cooked lunch. If necessary, talk to their teacher and work out the best way forward.

Most schools will be helpful, after all, you’re on the same team wanting the best for your foster child.

Sometimes there won’t be anything specific a child can mention, but going back to school still makes them feel a bit ‘meh’. For these times, or possibly alongside other action, there is still plenty you can do to beat those blues.

Why not ask if there is a new club or activity they would like to try outside of school? Football teams, dance classes, pottery courses or Boys’ Brigade and Girls’ Association are all great places for children to develop skills and learn new ones, while making friends at the same time. They also make term time less about school. For those who struggle academically, thriving at something else can especially be a big confidence booster.

A good night’s sleep can help as well. Prizing a screen from a teen’s grasp before bedtime might not make you their favourite person, but it should help them switch off faster. For younger children, lavender scented bath foam or shower gel can be very relaxing. Oh, and did you know that for all ages, oat biscuits promote sleep?

Finally, be positive! Try creating a treat jar with special activities written on pieces of brightly coloured paper, then every day after school or at weekends, let your child choose one to do. 30 minutes of screen time, McDonalds, a film night with popcorn or an extra bubbly bath are all great ideas, but why not get your thinking caps on together?

Journalling can be an easy positive as well. Try sitting together before bed and writing down three things your child is grateful for that day, or three things they are looking forward to tomorrow. It may be a small act, but it really can make a difference and promote that positivity.

If you want more advice on anything in this blog, we are here for you. Contact us to talk school blues or anything fostering really, we’d love to hear from you. We’ll even show you our nice, new pencil case.