Back to School Guide

Going back to school can bring to children many different emotions, ranging from excitement to severe anxiety. It can be challenging to switch off the fun, long days of summer and transition to the structure of the school day. Parents can also feel this stress as emotions shift, schedules change, and obligations like purchasing school supplies add additional financial stressors. Issues like bullying, body image, social media standards, and language barriers can also add additional stressors that can have a negative effect on your child’s self-esteem and mental health.

Mental Health Matters: According to SAMSHA: Often unseen and untreated, child and adolescent mental health challenges can significantly impact the ability to learn and develop. One in five children has a diagnosable mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder. Yet, many of them do not receive the help they need. Research tells us that there is a robust link between students’ mental health and their academic success. Therefore, awareness of mental health and potential for substance misuse should be a core part of every family’s back-to-school preparation.

It’s important to be prepared and offer support to your children (and yourself). No matter the age of your child, follow these suggestions to get the school year started out on the right path:

Communicate openly- Offer a safe space to communicate openly with your child about their feelings. This can help them feel confident recognizing and expressing emotions. It also shows your child you are a safe place to approach and discuss their feelings and mental health struggles in the future. Show them you also have emotions and experience challenges in your daily life as well. By normalizing these conversations without judgment, you are creating a safe and open space for the whole family.

Prioritize routine- One of the core pillars for self-care is a healthy, balanced routine. It can be tricky to switch quickly from the summer routine to the early mornings of the school year. Start the transition slowly, waking a bit earlier each day and prioritizing good sleep. Schedule in time for homework, outdoor activities, relaxation and healthy, balanced meals.

Build a support network- Being your child’s ally and support system is important- and it’s also ok to have additional tools when needed. Be involved in back-to-school events. Meet teachers, educate yourself in additional community supports and resources like these:

School Based Health Care- Medical, Oral, and Behavioral Health

Summit School District nurses and counselors

Smart Bellies- Feeding Students in Summit and Lake County

Early Childhood options- childcare and tuition assistance

FIRC- Food banks, rental assistance, health insurance enrollment

1 degree APP- Free, life improving resources

Summit Advocates- Resources for victims of domestic and sexual

Paragon- immediate in-person crisis response

Building Hope Mental Health Navigation and Therapy Scholarships

Focus on balance- The pressures our children face today can be difficult and demanding. Not only do they struggle with image and social media standards, but the pressure from parents to perform well in school, sports and future endeavors can also prove to be challenging. While producing good results at school is important, so is supporting and encouraging a well-rounded child and school experience. Be open to variety, trying something new, and eliminating the desire for perfection.

This year as we prepare for the upcoming school year and work through the back-to-school checklist, remember to also prioritize the mental health of your children (and yourself). Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of adolescent mental health concerns, focus on a healthy routine, openly talk with your child about what they are feeling and experiencing, and offer help and assistance when needed.