This August Kick off the School Year with Confidence – Together!

Mental Health Tips for a Positive Start to the School Year!

At any age, the transition from summer to the start of the school year can be exciting, stressful, and often overwhelming for kids and teens. Acknowledging their feelings and encouraging open and honest communication during this time can be a great way to start the year off on the right foot. Recognize that your child may be feeling anxious, and with your support, you can help them begin the school year feeling confident and prepared.  Having these conversations and prioritizing mental health at an early age can have lasting effects for your child into adulthood. Kids who can develop healthy coping strategies to deal with stress are less likely to turn to substance use. Encouraging healthy coping strategies like yoga, meditation, and physical activity for your child can help them manage stress, build emotional resilience, and develop lifelong habits that support their overall well-being.

🧠 Mental Health Tips for a Positive Start to the School Year

2. Start the Conversation Early

Begin to talk to your child about how they are feeling about the upcoming school year in August. Create space for open conversations and acknowledge that all feelings are validated.

2. Establish Healthy Routines Early

Good sleep, balanced meals, and consistent routines help regulate mood and improve focus. Start these habits a week or two before school begins to ease the transition.

3. Model Calm & Confidence

Kids take cues from adults. Managing your own stress and speaking positively about school sets a reassuring tone for your child.

4. Keep Communication Open

Ask open-ended questions:

• “What are you looking forward to?”

• “Is there anything you’re nervous about?”
  Make time to listen without judgment.

5. Watch for Warning Signs

Some stress is normal, but if your child is:

• Avoiding school

• Showing changes in sleep or appetite

• Becoming unusually withdrawn or irritable

…it may be a sign to check in more deeply or seek support.

6. Build a Support Network

Connect with teachers, counselors, and other parents early. Knowing who to reach out to can make it easier to support your child if concerns arise later.

7. Prioritize Emotional Check-Ins

Daily or weekly check-ins can help your child process their experiences. Even a simple, “High and low of the day?” can build emotional awareness and trust.

Emotional Check-In Ideas for Kids & Teens:

  

Parent Tips for Peer Pressure:

Navigating peer pressure at any age for children and teens can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to help your children stay true to their values and make healthy choices. Here are some tips to share with your child:

1. Be Confident in Your Decision: Remind them to firmly and politely say “no” without feeling the need to justify their choice. Confidence can deter further pressure.
2. Surround Yourself with Like-Minded Friends: Encourage them to find friends who share their values and support their decisions. It’s easier to resist peer pressure when you’re not alone. Encourage your child to get involved by joining a club, sport, or activity to meet like-minded friends and peers!
3. Plan Ahead: Discuss with your child how they will handle situations where they might be offered substances. Explain that having a plan can make it easier to stick to their decision and stay strong.
4. Suggest Alternatives: Propose other activities that don’t involve alcohol or drugs, like going to a movie, playing sports, or having a game night.
5. Seek Support: If you’re child is struggling with peer pressure, encourage them to talk to a trusted friend, family member, teacher or school counselor. They can offer support and advice. Remind them that you are always there to talk whenever they need.
6. Stay Busy: Encourage your child to engage in clubs, sports, or other activities that keep them occupied and away from situations where peer pressure might occur.

Parent Resources:

Check out the resources below and make sure to check back throughout August for a new Parent Video Series coming soon!

ParentGuardian Resource Guide

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