Back to School Jitters: Expert Advice for a Smooth Transition
Everything you do as a parent to do anything to benefit your child is good.
As the new school year looms, both parents and children often find themselves wrestling with anxiety and nerves. In this special edition of 'Brandler Bits', Jeffrey M. Brandler, a seasoned therapist with over 38 years of experience, dives into the heart of these 'Back to School Jitters'. Drawing from his extensive background as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Addictions Specialist, and former educator, Brandler shares practical tips to ease the transition for families.
One of Brandler's key pieces of advice is the importance of truly listening to your child's concerns. Whether it's adjusting to a new schedule or mastering the art of using a locker, understanding their worries can help you offer the right support. He suggests parents not hesitate to reach out to teachers or school counselors for additional guidance and reassurance. Building resilience is another crucial theme in this episode.
Brandler likens it to sports teams that learn to bounce back from losses, emphasizing that children too can benefit from developing this trait. He provides actionable strategies for managing homework frustrations and balancing extracurricular activities with schoolwork. Parent involvement in school activities also plays a significant role in helping children adjust. While Brandler acknowledges the pressure parents may feel to attend every event, he reassures them that any effort made to support their child is valuable.
He encourages parents to seek support from their child's school, be it through a counselor or the PTA. Jeffrey M. Brandler's insights in this episode are designed to equip parents with the tools they need to help their children feel confident and prepared for the upcoming school year. By focusing on listening, building resilience, balancing activities, and seeking support, families can conquer those back-to-school jitters together.