| Luminis Health

Fulltext search

Content type

General Page Category » Taxonomy term » Name

Community, Pediatrics, Infectious Disease
General Page Tier 3
Helping Your Child Manage Back-to-School Anxiety
Helping Your Child Manage Back-to-School Anxiety
Helping Your Child Manage Back-to-School Anxiety
Blog
Back-to-school butterflies are common at the start of every new school year, as our kids adapt to new teachers, new routines, shifting friend dynamics and more. And this year especially, after so much change and with some uncertainty still lingering, your child’s anxiety might be at an all-time high. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help. Talk about feelings: Theirs and yours Some children naturally have more worries than others, and many don’t like to talk about their feelings. Ongoing reminders that you’ll always be there for support will go a long way. And although it can be hard to wait for your child to come to you with any concerns, it’s essential to be patient and allow them the necessary time and space. Many kids feel stress about fitting in or bullying, not doing well enough in school, resolving troubles with a teacher or using the school bathroom. COVID-19 worries are also still top-of-mind. In many cases, your simple but steady support can help: Acknowledge you hear their concerns, whatever they may be Be sympathetic, understanding and supportive Normalize feelings in the moment, and explain that it is also normal for emotions to change many times during the day. Point out the steps you (and others) are taking to protect them (and what they can do to protect themselves) Stay committed to offering your support as they work through each issue Also, remember your child will learn from your example. Try to be a good role model for managing and overcoming your own worries in a healthy way. Set the foundation: Back to basics A healthy lifestyle is crucial for children with anxiety. Focusing on taking care of the basics around your home can help you all live easier and with less stress. Allow time to unwind Practicing mindfulness, meditation and deep breathing techniques can help manage symptoms of anxiety. It may also help to give children unstructured, quiet time throughout the day. Keep a good bedtime routine Kids need the right amount of sleep to maintain their physical, mental and emotional health. Preschool kids should get 10 to 13 hours of sleep, school-aged children should aim for nine to 12 hours, and teens should get around eight to 10 hours of sleep a night, according to national guidelines. Help them stay active during the day Most kids age six to 17 should do at least an hour of physical activity every day. Work with your child to find a form of exercise they enjoy, whether it’s an organized sport like soccer, neighborhood activities like bike riding or a class like karate. Shop for healthy foods Plan ahead, so you have enough food in the pantry for healthy cooking. And meals don’t have to be creative or elaborate to be healthy — simple, wholesome foods on a weekly rotation will do the trick. Include as many fruits and vegetables as possible, and from there, focus on whole grains, legumes like beans, peas and lentils, and lean proteins, nuts and seeds. Limit sugary treats and saturated fat. If your child’s anxiety peaks in the mornings before school, plan a routine together to help them get out the door on the right foot. Simple steps, like making sure they have clean clothes ready to go and a simple breakfast that feels easy on a nervous stomach, can make a difference. Watch for signs that more help is needed Kids show anxiety in different ways and it can depend on their age. Very young children may cry or act extra clingy at drop-off, while older school kids might argue about going to school or complain of physical symptoms like a stomachache or headache. It’s normal for this to happen occasionally and fade over a few weeks. However, if school has been in session for more than a few weeks and you’re still dealing with these behaviors it’s likely time to get help, especially if your child’s worries are getting in the way of their daily life or interaction with family and friends. We’re here when you need us Remember, children are adaptable and resilient. Your child will weather the storm — after all, they have you by their side. When a little extra help is needed to get your child back to living their best life, your trusted primary care physician is a great place to start for advice on next steps. Luminis Health mental health specialists are also ready, should you need us, with the support you need to help your child thrive. Authors Jennifer Williams is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Community, Pediatrics, Infectious Disease
General Page Tier 3
Tips for Going Back to School during the Pandemic
Tips for Going Back to School during the Pandemic
Tips for Going Back to School during the Pandemic
Blog
Many schools are re-opening for in-person instruction after being closed for nearly a year. Heading back to school can be both exciting and nerve-racking. And whether your child has already returned or is still adjusting to new schedules, our experts have you covered with helpful tips for being back in the classroom. Routine Since many students have been out of school for almost a year, it’s important to restart good habits around routines like eating and sleeping. Children should start going to bed early and waking up each morning at an appropriate time. Remember, it’s always good to get eight hours of sleep and breakfast is the important meal of the day. Model Good Behavior Students should wear masks/face coverings on the bus and at school. If you wear a mask, your children will follow your lead. Face coverings must cover their mouth and nose fully. Kids should also practice wearing masks for long periods of time. It will make it that much easier when they return to the classroom. Watch for Symptoms If your child is sick, or if someone in your household has tested positive for COVID-19, they should stay home. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fever of 100 degrees or higher, chills and loss of taste or smell. If you have questions, contact your child’s physician or the school’s health office. Health and Safety Children want to share; it’s in their nature. Normally, we applaud their kindness. But for now, students should refrain from sharing food or school supplies. They also must keep their physical distance from classmates. Turn a conversation about social distance into a fun exercise. For example, show your child how many toys it takes to get to six feet. Finally, remind them to frequently wash their hands with soap and water during the school day. These important steps will keep everyone safe and healthy. Children are our future. Let’s help them lead the way. Authors Lauren Fitzpatrick, MD, is the medical director of Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Department. Kristen Breslin, MD, MPH, is the medical director of Children’s National Emergency Department at Doctors Community Hospital.