The Burden of Back-to-School on Parents and Children

The Burden of Back-to-School on Parents and Children

Backpacks… stationery… school supplies… this is just part of what parents think about when school season starts. It begins with a financial burden on parents. Moreover, the thought of managing children’s time, school responsibilities, and helping with homework adds additional pressure that parents constantly think about.

Meanwhile, children experience the burden of anxiety over a new and unknown phase they are eager to discover. What is the new school like? How will I adapt without my parents? Who will help me? These and other questions make them anxious and nervous about returning to school. This can manifest in sleep disturbances, low energy, loss of appetite, lack of concentration, or even refusal to attend school. Since children have different personalities, parents can identify changes in their behavior and work on addressing them.

Tips to Reduce the Burden of Going Back to School

After observing the child and understanding their emotions related to school stress, you can follow these steps to ease the burden of going back to school:

1. Ask questions and be supportive. Talk to your child about the main concerns they’re feeling, listen carefully, and observe their body language. This helps reduce anxiety and stress related to returning to school.
2. Help your child feel prepared for school by explaining the important aspects of the academic year. You can also visit the school together and meet the teacher to provide a sense of security and reassurance.
3. Be a role model and remain calm when your child feels anxious. Children are a reflection of their parents; they observe your actions, reactions, and how you handle conflicts and challenges.
4. Establish routines. School routines help reduce pressure for both parents and children. Set consistent times for sleep, play, meals, and other daily activities to help your child stay organized during school days.
5. Encouragement and motivation. Slip a positive note or motivational phrase in your child’s backpack. This reinforces your ongoing support. Also, spend quality time together as a family during weekends—watching a movie, attending a game, or having dinner together—to refuel your child for the upcoming week.

The Link Between Meditation and Easing the Back-to-School Burden

Meditation and various relaxation techniques help reduce the anxiety and stress associated with going back to school for both parents and children.

You can practice meditation and deep breathing exercises with your child at home to help them manage school-related anxiety. For example, take a deep breath, count to eight, then exhale. This simple exercise calms your child and eases their tension—especially when they’re away from your embrace. You can also benefit from the Tawazon app by downloading it and watching short videos that offer the best meditation, relaxation, and yoga practices suitable for both parents and children.

Suggested short URL: tawazonapp.com/back-to-school-stress