As the new school year begins, it is essential to prepare your children and give them the support they need for a smooth transition back to class. The back-to-school season can be stressful for many kids, even in the best of times. Parents should pay close attention to their child’s mental health and well-being and take action if they notice anything abnormal.

Entering a new school year means adjusting to unfamiliar classrooms, teachers and coursework after a summer break free from intense academic and social pressures. This adjustment can impact students’ mental well-being, especially against the backdrop of the global mental health crisis affecting a substantial portion of our youth. Statistics show that more than one in five young people grapple with mental illness, yet only a fraction receive proper treatment from qualified child or adolescent mental health providers.

The expert team at Children’s Hospital New Orleans shares these tips to reduce back-to-school anxiety, stress and behavior issues.

1. Keep calm. Parents need to lead by example. Teach kids to take deep breaths to calm themselves. Slow down and give your family extra time in the morning so you aren’t anxious and rushed. A child that is less rushed in the morning is more likely to feel prepared for the day.
2. Start a healthy routine. A nutritious diet, exercise and good sleep are all important. Children need a routine and do well with a structured schedule. Make sure your child has time to eat breakfast to start his or her long school day with energy.
3. Be sensitive and keep kids in the know. Talk with your child and be tuned in to his or her thoughts, concerns and feelings. Answer their questions. Share important information with your kids so there are no surprises that can cause frustration.
4. Stay flexible. Avoid rigidity. Be aware of your child’s expectations and possible anxieties about starting a new school year and be willing to adjust as needed.
5. Talk with the teacher. Communicating with your child’s teacher or teachers is important year-round. Discuss any needs and concerns, as well as student performance and behavior in class.
6. Look for warning signs. If your child’s mood or behavior changes, or his or her sleeping and eating schedule is off, talk it over. Seek professional help if necessary.

Recognizing these challenges, ThriveKids, a school-based student wellness program of Children’s Hospital New Orleans, aims to support students and families in navigating physical and mental health challenges throughout the school year to support positive health and academic outcomes.

By improving access to mental health services in schools, we empower students to prioritize their health by educating them on how to remain mentally healthy and address challenges. ThriveKids adopts an engaging, hands-on approach to fostering a brighter, kinder, supportive and inclusive future for the next generation. By nurturing an environment where every child’s mental well-being is valued and supported, ThriveKids aims to empower young minds to excel academically, socially and emotionally.

With direct access to mental health professionals in schools, and comprehensive care coordination, ThriveKids’ holistic approach bolsters individual resilience and cultivates a community where empathy and understanding flourish.

As families prepare for the upcoming school year, Children’s Hospital stands ready to provide essential support and resources, ensuring that every child can thrive. Through collaborative efforts with schools, parents and communities, ThriveKids continues to enhance the well-being of the next generation.

To enroll your child in ThriveKids and learn more about Children’s Hospital New Orleans’ comprehensive Behavioral Health program, visit chnola.org/thrive.