It’s that time again. Early mornings, homework, packed lunches, and parent-teacher conferences. That’s right—we're back to school!

When your child first starts school, it’s common to have mixed emotions. While we often focus on making sure our kids transition into the school year with no hiccups, it’s just as important for parents to pause and check in on themselves too.

“Most families have a summer routine, and just when you’re starting to adjust to staying up late, it’s time to switch back to that school schedule before you know it,” says Dr. Tyler Loy clinical psychologist at WellSpan Philhaven in York, “This can cause a lot of anxiety for parents to make sure they’re on top of things. Whether that’s getting their child on the bus on time or where their classroom is when they get to school.”

Transitioning your elementary school student

• Communicate with your child and keep an open dialogue. Make sure they know you are there for them if they need someone to talk to. Being honest with them will encourage open communication so you know what’s going on at school.
• Be proactive and reach out to the teacher before the school year begins to start a good relationship early. This can help you to feel more in control and in the know about how a regular day in the classroom may look for your child.
• Get involved where possible by attending orientation events or volunteer as a chaperone.

Don’t forget that you will still be there to support them throughout this new journey of making friends, growing up, and discovering new things.

It’s about you, too

“A lot of parents and caregivers strive to be perfect all the time,” Dr. Loy says. “Is that sustainable? No. It can lead to burnout very quickly. We can try our best for our kids and can’t pour from an empty cup.”

According to Dr. Loy, there are several additional ways you can take some of that stress off your shoulders:

• Have a structured routine for the family to feel more in control. Set bedtime and stick to it so everyone, including you, gets enough sleep.
• Seek social support through friends, other parents at your child’s school, their teacher, or professional counseling. Others are experiencing the same feelings as you, so you’re not alone!
• Try to avoid holding back your feelings but find the appropriate place to share them. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
• Optimize evenings to have some fun. Whether it’s a night out with your spouse or friends, or a fun family adventure, set aside time for the whole family to unwind.

Dr. Loy reminds parents that children, especially at a young age, feed off your energy and can sense when you’re stressed out.

“It’s harder for younger children to regulate their emotions,” explains Dr. Loy. “If we are overwhelmed, our kids will be able to recognize and may respond similarly. Less stress for you can help foster less stress for your children.”

“Remember, things are not always going to go perfectly,” says Dr. Loy. “And that’s ok.”

Have an older student? Check out our tips for middle and high schoolers and college students. 

Do you need support throughout the school year? WellSpan’s myStrength program offers personalized support for stress, anxiety, sleep and more through digital courses and online tools for individuals. Visit myStrength.com and use the code COMMUNITYSERVICES to get started or call 800-945-4355.