Calm Your Child's Back-to-School Anxiety in 60 seconds

Back to schoolcan be an exciting time for children, and for others, a time of intense anxiety and discomfort.

Whether it’s changing schools, worrying about “fitting in”, or dreading school work, some kids have a hard time adjusting to a new school year.

Elementary age children may feel nervous about finding someone to play with at recess or meeting new friends on the first day.

Middle school age children may feel nervous about using a locker for the very first time, finding someone to sit with at lunch, or navigating their way through a new school.

No matter the age, children face very similar feelings as the new school year approaches. However, as opposed to merely saying a quick, “oh, honey you will be fine...” it's important to address how your child is feeling and give some attention to that specific emotion.

Children are forced to overcome many obstacles without being taught effective coping skills. So, it's necessary to sit down with your child and address how they're feeling. As a team, you can both come up with effective coping strategies.

Although there are plenty of effective coping strategies, there is one in particular that engages both the mind and body, emotionally, mentally, and physically... YOGA!

Yoga can ease anxiousness in children

Yoga is one of the best coping mechanisms because of its combination of physical movement, which distracts the mind, and deep breathing techniques, which eases anxiousness.

Below you will find our Empowerment Yoga Card Sequence that provides an effective way to deal with nervous back-to-school energy. The series is great because you can take it on-the-go, outside in the backyard, in the playroom, or even at the bus stop on the first day of school. Practice the series with your child that way you are showing them that you are there for him/her!