The challenge with school stress is that kids don’t always know how to talk about it—so you don’t always know what’s up. Here are expert tips from USA Today and the website Shine that are sure to help both of you out.
1. Listen. Try to casually find out what’s going on with them. Even if they aren’t talking, watch for nonverbal cues and trust your instincts if your kid just doesn’t seem himself or herself. Begin the conversation by offhandedly asking about school while you’re driving home, at the supermarket, or doing a chore around the house together. Don’t pressure them, and refrain from pressing for answers.
2. Talk about homework. If they’re new to homework, discuss the work with them before they sit down to work. Talk about what is due when and help them plan how to get the work done. Don’t focus on grades, but rather focus on completion and understanding the concepts of the assignment. Learning to manage their workload efficiently will help them succeed not only in school, but also in the workforce.
3. Establish a routine. Set a breakfast and morning routine that works for everyone. Try to make mornings calm and be enthusiastic about what’s planned for the day. Lead by example by happily sharing the plans that you have for your day.
4. Unschedule kids. Extracurricular activities are great, but it’s just as important that kids take time to relax and have some unscheduled time at home or outdoors. Keep one weekday after school as a “free day,” and stick to that schedule for the school year. It’s easier to be relaxed and prepared for the rest of the week when your child has had proper downtime.