Prep Kids for the Next Step
The start of a new school year feels exciting, but transitions can feel challenging for our kids. They may feel mixed emotions about starting a new grade level or moving to a new school. Being excited while feeling apprehensive or anxious is normal! Kids might also have conflicting feelings about friendships or changes to their growing bodies. As your family heads into a new school year, prep kids for the next steps by finding small moments to check in, modeling the importance of well-being, and reminding kids of ways to stay safe so they start their year with confidence!
Keep Lines of Communication Open
Making yourself available is one of the best ways to keep lines of communication open. Chances are your kids want to talk so seize moments between activities, during car rides, or at the breakfast or dinner table to touch base.
Prep by being ready with open-ended questions like these 5 questions your kids want you to ask. These thoughtful questions encourage kids to pause and reflect as they open up to you. By keeping lines of communication open, you show them you care, support them, and want to be engaged in their lives.
Work Out a Plan to Help Them Stay Safe
Kids can find themselves in situations where it feels hard to stand up to their peers, especially as new friendships are forming. The bottom line is we always want our kids to be safe, so let them know they can always use you as an excuse to get out of a situation.
One way to help them prep to be safe is by designating a single letter or emoji they can text you as a signal for help. Let them know when you get their signal to expect a call, asking them to come home immediately. Emphasize that asking for help is always an option and you’ll never be upset with them for doing so, you just want them to be safe.
Model the Importance of Mental Well-Being
The start of a new school year can be stressful but prep for the next step by prioritizing mental health. Sticking to a regular bedtime, finding ways to be active every day, and avoiding alcohol or other substances to handle stress are ways to model self-care and healthy habits.
Let kids see how you set healthy boundaries, prioritize your physical health, make time for personal interests, and ask for help when needed. This helps them understand that self-care is normal and an important part of maintaining their own mental health.
Stay Positive
Prep kids for the next steps by taking a deep breath and having a conversation, because keeping a calm, positive attitude is everything. Your attitude sets the stage for any conversation, whether you’re talking about homework, screen time, bedtime, sibling relationships, or having a first conversation about alcohol.
Thank you for engaging in conversations and modeling responsible behaviors as you prep for a new school year. The small, everyday moments you spend listening to and connecting with your kids help build a foundation of trust that will last well beyond the school year. We wish your family a smooth start and a wonderful year ahead!
-The Ask, Listen, Learn Team