Here is how parents and carers can help ease this transition and support their child’s emotional well-being.

Look Out for Subtle Behavioural Changes

Children rarely express anxiety directly. Instead, pay close attention to subtle shifts in their daily routines, uncharacteristic social withdrawal, or sudden fallouts with friends.

When unexpected behaviour occurs—such as reluctance to go to school or sudden outbursts—focus on understanding the root cause rather than punishing the action. Ask yourself: What is driving this change? Is it fear, self-doubt, or a lack of confidence?

Pay attention to how your child asks questions. Asking excessive clarifying questions often indicates heightened worry, while asking no questions at all may mean they are holding their anxieties inside.

Open Communication and Listening

To open up a supportive dialogue:

• Ask Open Questions: Explicitly acknowledge the shift. Ask, “You’re moving to a new classroom with different teachers—how are you feeling about this change?”
• Listen More Than You Speak: Aim for an 80/20 rule—spend 80% of the time listening and only 20% speaking. Let them guide the conversation.
• Use Non-Verbal Gauge Tools: If a child finds verbalising feelings difficult, try using daily emotion charts or rating scales out of 10 to check in after school.
• Provide Perspective: Remind them of past successes. Reassure them that they have successfully navigated new school years before and built new friendships along the way.

Managing Bigger, Permanent Changes

If the new term brings permanent changes—such as a favourite teacher retiring or a close friend moving away—avoid assuming how your child will react. Often, parental anxiety can accidentally project onto a child, making the issue seem larger.

Check in with their feelings first. If they are struggling, equip them with self-soothing grounding techniques they can use independently at school:

• Finger Breathing: Deep breathing exercises performed quietly under their desk.
• Mindful Focus: Counting object details around the school field or finding a quiet corner in the library during break times.

Re-establishing Structure and Balance

Children thrive on routine because predictability calms their nervous system.

• Maintain Home Routines: Consistent bedtimes and predictable evening schedules make children feel safe amid daytime changes.
• Be Mindful of Screen Time: Monitor screen use closely, as excessive device time can heighten underlying anxiety.

Balance Responsibilities with Fun:

After school, frame homework alongside family rewards. Pair academic obligations with engaging activities like playing a board game or walking the dog to keep evening routines positive.

Finding Community with Dorset Mind  

We have a variety of support groups that may be right for you! Visit https://dorsetmind.uk/what-we-offer/adult-services/adult-groups/ to explore our range of support groups for people facing mental health challenges.  

  

If your mental health is affecting your ability to function day to day, please contact your GP or mental health professional. At DorsetMind.uk Our dedicated Young People’s Service team run group and 1:1 programmes like Connected Minds and Community Active Monitoring which are part of our Waiting Well Programme. 

Our vision is simple: Every young person in Dorset should have access to early mental health support.