Back to School Tips for Parents: Mental Health Edition

1. Remind your child they are not alone. School is filled with people who are excited to help your child learn and grow. Reach out if you need assitance!

2. Help your child know what to expect. Find out if there are any new policies or procedures this year.

3. Praise all your child's efforts! Life is more than grades. Regonize their curiosity, kindness, and bravery.

4. Pay attention to your own feelings. Kids can sense when adults are feeling stressed or anxious. Model positive coping strategies.

5. Get enough sleep! Kids need plenty of sleep do to their best each day. Reduce distractions, such as electronics, at bedtime.

6. Schedule quality time together. Just 1 hour makes a difference! Some examples are: family game night, cooking dinner together, and getting outside to enjoy nature.

7. Encourage daily movement. Exercise has known pysical and mental health benefits for kids and adults. 

8. Keep a routine. Waking up and going to bed at the same time every day improves mental health. 

9. Identify ways to calm stress. Taking deep breaths or holding something comforting in your hand (like a smooth rock) quietly relieve stress.

10. Just ask! Ask your child how they are feeling about the many things going on in their life (school, sports, friendships). Be a good listener!