Therapy Near Me Mental Health Articles

The beginning of a new school year can be a time of excitement, but also anxiety and stress for both children and parents. As students across Australia gear up to return to school, understanding how to navigate this transitional period is crucial. This article provides psychologists’ advice on how to start the new school year positively, underpinned by scientific research.

1. Establishing Routines: Establishing a consistent daily routine is beneficial for children. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (2015), routines can aid in reducing anxiety and improving sleep, which are crucial for academic success.
2. Setting Realistic Goals: Encouraging children to set achievable goals for the school year can boost their motivation and self-esteem. Locke and Latham’s (2002) goal-setting theory highlights the importance of setting specific and challenging goals to enhance performance.
3. Fostering a Growth Mindset: Cultivating a growth mindset, where children understand that their abilities can be developed through effort, can greatly impact their academic and personal development. Dweck (2006) has shown that students with a growth mindset are more resilient in the face of challenges.
4. Emotional Preparation: Discussing any fears or anxieties with children and validating their feelings is crucial. Ginsburg & Jablow (2015) suggest that open communication can help children feel more secure and less anxious about new experiences.

1. Encouraging Social Connections: Building friendships and social connections can help children feel more connected and less isolated. Rubin, Bukowski, & Parker (2006) have demonstrated the importance of peer relationships in children’s social and emotional development.
2. Balancing Academic and Leisure Activities: Encouraging a balance between schoolwork and leisure activities can prevent burnout and maintain mental well-being. Eccles & Roeser (2011) state that extracurricular activities can provide opportunities for growth and stress relief.
3. Healthy Lifestyle Habits: A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep are foundational for academic success and overall well-being. Taras & Potts-Datema (2005) emphasise the strong link between health and learning.
4. Regular Check-ins: Periodic check-ins to discuss academic progress and emotional well-being are important. According to Rimm-Kaufman & Pianta (2000), parental involvement is key in supporting children’s academic and emotional needs.

Starting a new school year successfully involves a combination of practical preparations, emotional support, and fostering a positive mindset. By establishing routines, setting realistic goals, encouraging social connections, and maintaining a healthy balance, parents can significantly contribute to their children’s success and well-being throughout the school year.

• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2015). Healthy Children.org.
• Locke, E. A., & Latham, G. P. (2002). Building a practically useful theory of goal setting and task motivation. American Psychologist, 57(9), 705-717.
• Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House.
• Ginsburg, K. R., & Jablow, M. M. (2015). Building resilience in children and teens: Giving kids roots and wings. American Academy of Pediatrics.
• Rubin, K. H., Bukowski, W. M., & Parker, J. G. (2006). Peer interactions, relationships, and groups. Handbook of Child Psychology.
• Eccles, J. S., & Roeser, R. W. (2011). Schools as developmental contexts during adolescence. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 21(1), 1800 NEAR ME-241.
• Taras, H., & Potts-Datema, W. (2005). Sleep and student performance at school. Journal of School Health, 75(7), 248-254.
• Rimm-Kaufman, S. E., & Pianta, R. C. (2000). An ecological perspective on the transition to kindergarten: A theoretical framework to guide empirical research. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 21(5), 491-511.

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If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.