What parents should look out for in their children for the back-to-school season

The back-to-school season is an exciting time that brings new opportunities for growth and learning, but for some children, it is a highly stressful period. The transition from a summer of participating in fun activities and hanging out with friends to sitting in a classroom with other students, and having a pile of homework and assignments, can become difficult to deal with, especially with the rising expectations. This is whyits important for parents to look out for the early signs that their child may be struggling, to ensure they can be supported early on.

Returning to school can become a major trigger for those who have anxiety. Fear of social situations, worries about academic performance, or both can make a school day feel daunting. Conditions like anxiety and depression can manifest through constant worry, irritability, clinginess or even avoidance, or expressing dread about going to school may be some red flags that your child is struggling. Sometimes, the signs can be subtle, such as constant procrastination. A child who struggles with anxiety may become hyper-focused on “getting everything perfect” and get frustrated over making small mistakes, which in turn, can cause them to avoid starting assignments altogether, leading to last-minute work or missing deadlines, and declining academic performance.

Neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD also play a significant role in a child's school experience. ADHD can be hard to detect, especially since the spectrum of differences in behaviour can be incredibly vast. A typical child who has a diagnosis of ADHD may be seen as extremely impulsive, have a habit of interrupting conversations, and struggle with common classroom behaviour, symptoms that teachers may easily pick up on. However, another child may be experiencing ADHD symptoms in less visible ways, such as zoning off in class, losing track of deadlines for school assignments, forgetfulness, constantly losing things, and even binge eating. These symptoms can be easily misinterpreted as “laziness” or “carelessness”, when in reality, your child may be struggling.

Recognizing these signs is the first step, but it's also essential to provide a safe space for your children to discuss their feelings. Simply opening up a conversation and allowing them to express themselves without any external opinions or judgment can be incredibly beneficial to those struggling. Remember that each child responds differently, and some can find it difficult to articulate their feelings. Remind your children that it's okay to ask for help when they're struggling, and that you're able to provide a safe space for them to express themselves. Finding a way to communicate that works for you both and your child allows for a healthy and productive conversation.

Each child will respond differently to the back-to-school season, but becoming aware of any shifts in your child's behaviour and remaining empathetic can make a drastic difference in how your child handles the school year. Building predictable routines, ensuring they rest, and celebrating their small wins through their academic journey can help your child navigate challenges and thrive in the long run.