September 16, 2024
Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall!
Although this may be an exciting change for some, it may also add an extra layer of stress and anxiety for others. Let’s talk about some strategies to ease stress and prepare our children for the changes ahead!
- Visuals and Routines: The start of the school year can be very difficult to transition into, especially after having a little more freedom in the summer. Visuals like calendars and schedules can be used to remind our kids what to expect and when. They can even be in charge of creating and making changes to them! It is helpful to establish a routine for getting ready in the morning, after school activities, and evening/bedtime. When expectations are laid out and concrete, routines will fall into place!
- Replacement Activities: Talk with your child about all the exciting activities that come with the fall such as making leaf piles, pumpkin picking, and Halloween to replace the activities they might be missing from the warmer weather like swimming or the beach. Involve your child in the conversation to talk about the things they would be interested in doing or trying this fall.
- Temperature Sensitivities: Some children are more sensitive to the cold temperatures which can trigger an emotional response due to sensory needs. You can use weather charts and check the temperature to give your child a warning about what the temperature will feel like before you leave the house. It is always helpful to prime and prep children ahead of time!
- Change in Clothing: There are many reasons why changing clothing might be difficult for your child (i.e., change in routine or a sensitivity to long sleeves and pants) you can try playing dress up with the new clothes to help them practice wearing different clothes, or offer choices of appropriate clothing to allow your child to have control and pick fabrics that are most comfortable for them.
- Coping strategies: Change is hard, but it is a part of life! Talk to your child about what helps them feel better in uncomfortable or challenging situations. Practice and praise them for utilizing coping strategies such as deep breathing, hugging a stuffed animal, or squeezing a stress ball/putty when coping with changes.
Fear of the unknown is uncomfortable. Let’s be patient with our children while we guide them to use coping strategies and prepare them for the changes that inevitably come with the change in season. Happy fall y’all!