Three tips to ease back-to-school anxiety

The lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer are still in full swing, but the start of school is just around the corner. Whether your kids are dreading waking up early or excited to hit the ground running, returning to the classroom is always a time of change and transition—for caregivers and teachers, too! We’ve got some tips for getting back-to-school ready and helping calm stress and anxiety using mindfulness techniques. 

Talk about feelings. Often, when children anticipate a significant stressor, such as returning to school, their behavior may change. Being able to label an emotion engages their brain and calms their system. If you notice this happening, work with your child to help them explore their feelings using the RAIN technique. 

R = Recognize the feeling and name it. 

A = Allow the feeling to be there without judging it. 

I = Investigate the feeling gently. 

N = Nourish with self-compassion. 

Practice deep breathing. Easy deep breathing exercises can be a powerful tool for easing stress and calming the nervous system. Practice breathing in through your nose for a count of four and then exhaling for a count of six (or a time that works best without struggling to exhale longer than inhaling).  

Try mindful movement. Give yoga, stretching, or even walking a try, and learn how to be fully present in your body, paying attention to how each movement feels. This practice is a great way to relieve stress while promoting physical health. 

Keep the conversation going throughout the year and be sure to check in with your child. If you would like to learn more about mindfulness, join our waitlist for our beginner-friendly, four-week course that combines practical mindfulness tools with insightful learning.