The countdown to the new school term has begun, and many families are still immersed in the warm and leisurely atmosphere of the holiday, where the sounds of children’s laughter and their footprints of exploration seem to linger in the air.
However, as the new semester approaches, many children start to feel an invisible pressure, transitioning from the relaxed mode of the holiday to a tense state of learning. This process often comes with a series of psychological challenges, during which they may experience some psychological issues. Children may encounter the following psychological problems:
01 Back-to-School Syndrome
This is a common phenomenon characterized by feelings of fear, anxiety, or resistance towards the upcoming school life.
Children may feel uneasy due to worries about new learning content, new social environments, and higher learning expectations.
They may exhibit physiological responses such as low mood, loss of appetite, and sleep disturbances, and even develop a reluctance towards studying.
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02 Emotional Depression
Some children may feel particularly dejected about returning to regular school life after the holiday, especially if the holiday included particularly joyful or unforgettable experiences.
They may perceive school days as dull and tedious, in sharp contrast to the happiness of the holiday, triggering feelings of depression.
This emotion may manifest as persistent sadness, loss of interest, and diminished self-esteem.
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03 Anxiety Disorder
The arrival of the new semester means more academic pressures, exam stress, and social pressures.
Children may worry about their academic performance compared to others, their ability to fit into new classes or social circles, leading to feelings of anxiety.
This anxiety may present itself as excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, or avoidance of social interactions.
04 Identity Crisis
As they grow older, children start to pay more attention to their self-identity.
At the start of the new semester, they may become more concerned about their image in the eyes of classmates and teachers, worrying about whether they are popular or possess certain abilities or traits.
This excessive focus on self-identity may lead them to fall into a dilemma of self-doubt, inferiority, or narcissism.
05 Adjustment Disorder
For some children, the new semester also means adapting to a new environment, new teachers, and classmates.
This change may make them feel out of place and result in learning difficulties and social issues.
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They may feel lonely, helpless, or frustrated, needing more time and support to adapt to the new environment.
In the face of children’s emotional problems, parents can take the following actions:
01 Understanding and Communication
First, parents need to patiently listen to their children’s feelings and understand their worries and anxieties about the new semester. By encouraging open dialogue, parents can help children express their thoughts and emotions, without dismissing or ignoring their feelings.
Let children know that having emotions is normal, and that parents are their strongest support.
02 Establishing a Reasonable Plan
Collaborate with children to create a study and life plan for the new semester that includes schedules, learning goals, and hobbies, helping children gradually adapt to the rhythm of school life.
At the same time, ensure to allocate reasonable break times, so that children have enough time to relax and recharge.
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03 Emotional Regulation
Teach children some simple emotional regulation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness exercises, helping them to self-soothe and maintain a calm and positive mindset when facing difficulties and challenges.
04 Establishing a Support System
Encourage children to communicate with peers and establish positive friendships.
Additionally, parents can maintain close contact with teachers to understand their children’s performance and needs at school, working together to support the children’s growth.
05 Positive Encouragement and Recognition
Provide timely positive reinforcement and recognition when children make progress or face challenges, enhancing their self-confidence and motivation.
Avoid excessive criticism or pressure, allowing children to grow in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
(Image source | Photo Network)
