By Rachael Hanwell, Bath Mind
Often, it can feel as though as soon as you get used to the summer holidays, thoughts of early mornings, school runs and guessing uniform sizes start running through your mind.
While adjusting to the summer break presents its own challenges, from concerns around cost and time off to keeping children entertained, getting back into your ‘normal’ routine can feel both exciting and nerve-racking.
That’s why, as part of Bath Mind’s 5 Ways to Wellbeing Summer Challenge, we are sharing our top tips for getting ready to return to school or college while supporting your family’s mental wellbeing. Whether you are looking for new ideas, wellbeing resources or mental health support, Bath Mind is here to help.
Supporting children and young people
Sometimes, anxiety about going back to school comes from a fear of the unknown. Concerns such as ‘What will I wear?’, ‘Where will I go?’ and ‘Who will I sit with?’ can initially seem small but quickly stack up and begin to feel overwhelming.
Building a routine, encouraging friendships, practising self-care, accessing support, remaining open and talking positively about the future can all help.
Build a routine
A daily routine can have a positive effect on mental wellbeing by creating structure and removing some of the many decisions we have to make every day.
To reduce the shock of going back to school, start reintroducing your term-time routine a few weeks beforehand. Try going to bed a little earlier, getting out of the house at your normal school-run or commute time – even if it is just to go to the park – and eating meals at roughly the same time each day.
Encourage friendships
Encouraging your child to reconnect with friends is a great way to help them feel more grounded and excited about the new term. You could encourage or arrange a meet-up with friends and plan an activity they will all enjoy, such as going to the park or playing a game.
Where possible, encourage conversations about how they are feeling about returning to school. By sharing their concerns, children and teenagers may realise they are not the only ones feeling worried.
Be there when they need to talk
Encouraging your child to talk about their feelings can help them process their emotions and recognise when they might need additional support.
Check in with them during the day and ask open-ended questions. If they appear snappy or overwhelmed, approach the subject with kindness and genuine interest. You might say, “I noticed that you don’t seem quite yourself at the moment. Is there anything you are worried about?”
Most importantly, be present and make time to listen without rushing the conversation.
Access the support that is available
If your young person is struggling with their mental health, they are not alone.
For younger children, search for the Bath Mind Children’s Wellbeing Toolkit, which helps children explore their feelings, learn calming techniques and understand that it is OK to feel the way they do.
For teenagers, search Bath Mind Children and Young People to download Bath Mind’s free Year 7 Transitions and Worry Worksheet.
If your young person becomes increasingly withdrawn or irritable, or is having persistent problems sleeping, contact their teacher or seek professional guidance from your GP.
Make time for self-care
Encourage your child or teenager to do things that help them feel happy and well. Supporting them to take up a hobby or join a club can help build both friendships and confidence.
You could also explore self-care activities together as a family, such as cooking, going for a walk or doing something creative. Bath Mind’s 5 Ways to Wellbeing Summer Challenge offers plenty more ideas.
Talk positively about the future
Focusing on the positives while also taking concerns seriously can help children feel more excited about the new school year. Talk about some of the opportunities school or college can bring, such as learning new things, seeing friends again and trying new activities.
You can also work together to brainstorm solutions to some of the specific things your child is worrying about. Breaking a concern down and finding practical ways to deal with it can make it feel much more manageable.
Looking after parents’ wellbeing too
While supporting your child or teenager is important, it is essential to make time to care for your own mental wellbeing too.
Wherever possible, make some time just for you. Better still, include this as part of your family routine, either first thing in the morning or before you go to bed. Do something you enjoy, move your body or take a long bath or shower to help yourself relax.
Be realistic and kind to yourself
Recognise that you cannot control every outcome and sometimes things simply do not go to plan. Allow yourself to be flexible and remember that having a difficult day does not make you a bad parent.
It can also help to be honest with yourself and others. Talk to other parents about your concerns, giving you the chance to offload and perhaps find new solutions.
Connecting with other parents can remind you that you are not alone. Hearing that others share similar challenges can help you feel understood, supported and more confident about seeking help when you need it.
Where to find support
If you need support with your own mental health and wellbeing, Bath Mind offers a range of information, activities, advice and support services for people of all ages.
Search Bath Mind Resources to explore its range of wellbeing worksheets and activities.
For immediate support, call Bath Mind’s Mindline on freephone 0808 175 1369 and press option 2, Tuesday to Friday from 4pm-9pm.
Bath Mind’s Breathing Space also provides in-person crisis support in Bath 365 evenings a year. Call freephone 0808 175 1369 or email email hidden; JavaScript is required before 4pm on the day.
You can also take a look at Bath Mind’s 5 Ways to Wellbeing Summer Challenge for more ideas to help you and your family look after your wellbeing in the weeks ahead.
Final thoughts
Returning to school after the summer holidays is a time of significant change for children, young people and parents alike. By prioritising wellbeing, building a good routine and practising kindness towards ourselves and others, we can help make that change feel less overwhelming.
And remember, you do not have to face the challenges alone. If you need us, Bath Mind is here to support you.
