Returning to school after the holiday period can pose challenges for children as they transition back to a structured routine and academic responsibilities following a break, which may seem daunting.
The conclusion of the festive season marks the return to the age-old question in Mum WhatsApp groups: “When do kids go back to school after Christmas?” This query often signals a wave of back-to-school anxiety in children, leading to increased meltdowns. The sentiment of reluctance towards school is not exclusive to kids; even adults share a similar sentiment towards returning to work. It’s important to acknowledge that a seamless return to the school year may not be feasible for many families, so remember that you are not facing this alone.
Dr. Becky Kennedy, a seasoned psychologist, is well-acquainted with the back-to-school struggle. Through her expertise, she provides practical solutions to everyday challenges, offering a helping hand to make parenting a tad easier. In her recent social media post, the mother-of-three recounted an incident involving her five-year-old on the first day back after the Christmas break. Her child adamantly expressed, “I’m not going to school today, you can’t make me!” The situation was compounded by the fact that his sister was staying home due to illness, leading him to protest, “she’s staying at home, why can’t I? It’s not fair!”
Dr. Becky’s approach to this scenario was enlightening. Instead of reacting with frustration, she emphasized the importance of understanding the child’s needs to navigate through their resistance. By acknowledging his feelings and stating, ‘Oh, you wish you didn’t have to go to school today,’ she provided a space for her child to express himself. This simple act of validation and empathy resonated with her child, eventually leading to his cooperation in getting ready for school.
The response from users was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their intent to apply this approach in their own parenting journey. One user highlighted the significance of listening to their child and allowing them to feel heard, while another shared their struggles with a child who doesn’t particularly enjoy school, emphasizing the daily challenges of getting them out the door.
Dr. Becky’s tip proved to be effective for many, as evidenced by a mother’s comment detailing her successful application of the strategy with her 5-year-old that very morning. By taking a moment to empathize and understand her child’s perspective, she was able to facilitate a smoother transition back to school.
Navigating the return to school may not be a seamless process, but employing strategies like these can help ease the transition for your children.