Children heading back to the classroom require support on an emotional as well as practical level, according to guidance issued to families ahead of the new academic term.
Dr Eleanor Bryant, who holds a post in eating and health psychology at the University of Bradford, has shared recommendations for caregivers seeking to assist young people experiencing apprehension about returning to education.
The specialist stressed that the goal should focus on expectation management rather than attempting to achieve an entirely stress-free beginning.
One approach highlighted involves personalising support according to developmental stage, spanning from reception-age pupils attending school for the initial occasion to pre-adolescents moving into secondary education at eleven years old.
For children at the younger end of the spectrum, Dr Bryant advocated making unfamiliar situations more approachable through concrete measures.
These include walking the journey to school in advance, talking through what a typical school day entails, and rehearsing practical skills such as dressing independently or seeking assistance from a teacher.
The psychologist cautioned against minimising a child’s concerns, instead advising adults to validate emotions while simultaneously reinforcing the child’s existing capabilities to manage challenging situations.
When considering pupils returning after the summer vacation, a gradual reintroduction to the school schedule was recommended.
This encompasses adjusting bedtimes and meal schedules prior to the commencement of term.
Additionally, facilitating social reintegration by enabling children to spend time with classmates before the first day back was suggested.
The value of physical activity was also emphasised, with research cited indicating that exercise can lower levels of anxiety and depression among young people.
For those transitioning to secondary school, Dr Bryant pointed to the importance of rehearsing logistical elements including the commute to school and interpreting class schedules.
Emotional investment in peer relationships was treated as equally significant, with emphasis placed on taking friendship-related concerns seriously and providing support even as young people pursue increased autonomy.
A public event scheduled for September 23 at the University of Bradford will examine mental wellbeing among children and adolescents as part of the institution’s 6 Decades Lecture programme.
The gathering, bearing the title Children and Young People’s Mental Health: Why Prevention Matters, runs from 1pm until 2.30pm and will showcase contributions from academics affiliated with the Bradford Mental Health Research Centre.
Discussion points will encompass difficulties encountered by young people, arguments for preventative approaches, and the part that parents, educational institutions, local communities, and policymakers can fulfil in promoting mental health.
The event will be accessible both in person at the university and via online participation.