Dealing with Back to School Anxiety

Well the Christmas tree has been packed away for another year and its time for me to get back to the office. And of course I’m not the only one who is getting back into work mode. Over the next week or two, thousands of school students will be returning to the classroom, some for the first time. For most there will be mixed emotions as a new school year starts, but for some the dread, anxiety, and fear, will be overwhelming. 

Parents often ask me the best way to help with back to school anxiety. Usually these parents aren’t sure when its right to push their child, and when its best to provide comfort and support. Most times my response is two fold. First, keep in mind that the best thing you can give your child is a supportive and safe relationship with you. If you keep maintaining this relationship then your child will grow up knowing that her feelings are ok, that you are looking out for him, and that all situations can be overcome with time. Second, it’s worth considering your own anxieties. Often the anxiety you see in your child is a reflection of yours. Learning to accept your own emotions and to improve your responses will help you to be calmer with your children and strengthen the relationship you have with them. 

I have attached links to a couple of really helpful books for those of you who would like more information on children's anxiety. There is also a link to the "Cool Kids" Anxiety Management program which I will be running throughout the year.

Please get in contact if you would like to speak with me or make an appointment. 

​Take care
Jon 

http://www.centreforemotionalhealth.com.au/…/cool-kids-prog…
http://www.amazon.com/Freeing-Your-Child-From-…/…/1452657033
http://www.goodreads.com/…/5378359-helping-your-anxious-chi…
http://www.amazon.com/What-When-You…/…/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2…