It can be easy to dismiss nerves with “don’t worry, you’ll be fine when you get there” (especially if you know they probably will be fine when they get there!) But taking time to listen and acknowledge feelings is reassuring, and lets them know that nothing is too small or too silly to share with you. Not all problems need solutions – just saying “I know that’s hard” can help your child feel heard and understood. 

OK, so we just said that not all problems need fixing, but if your child does want help with handling something specific, make a strategy together. Identify the problem – we may think they’re vaguely anxious about everything, or assume they’re worried about best friends when they’re actually stressed about maths. Finding out what the specific concerns are means you can think of practical steps to help, rather than general reassurances.

The start of the year can be an emotional time for parents too, wanting your child to be happy, settled and successful at school. AND you have to get everyone back into routine, co-ordinating drop offs, after-school activities, and homework. Don’t forget to check in on your own emotional temperature, and build in some self-care strategies to keep yourself stable.