On the way to the supermarket last night I drove past my kid’s school. She goes into year 5 in September. It made me think where have all the years gone and also of all of you who have little ones about to start.

It’s a total mix of emotions isn’t it?. Excitement, pride, but also anxiety, worry, and maybe even a touch of overwhelm. It’s completely normal to feel this way; after all, this is a big milestone for both of you.

However, if the anxiety feels overwhelming, it’s important to address it so that both you and your little one can have a positive start come the new school year.

Understanding the Source of Your Anxiety

First, take a moment to recognise where your anxiety is coming from. Common worries mums have at this stage include:

• Separation Anxiety: The idea of being apart from your child for a whole school day can be daunting, especially if they’ve been at home with you or in a smaller, more familiar setting e.g. child minders or family.
• Concerns About Your Child’s Readiness: You might worry if they’ll fit in, make friends, or keep up with the learning pace.
• Loss of Control: School brings a new structure that’s out of your hands, which can feel unsettling.
• Pressure of New Routines: Adjusting to the school run, packed lunches, and homework can seem overwhelming.

These feelings are valid and shared by all of us! But understanding the source of your anxiety is the first step in managing it.

Strategies to Manage Anxiety

1. Prepare Together

Preparation can ease both your anxiety and your child’s. Get familiar with the route you’ll take. You could even practice the school run a few times to make it feel more routine. Getting uniforms, bags, and supplies ready in advance also gives you a sense of control. Let your child try on their uniform in the days running up to starting school or even wear it out and about!

2. Talk About It

Discuss the upcoming change with your child in a positive light. Explain what they can expect in a way that’s appropriate for their age. Encourage them to talk about their feelings too. If they’re excited, share in that excitement. If they’re nervous, reassure them that it’s okay to feel that way and that they’ll get used to school in no time.

3. Connect with Other Mums

You’re not alone in this transition. If you can reach out to other mums whose children are starting school or who have already gone through this phase. Sharing your feelings and hearing others’ experiences can be comforting and offer new perspectives. Some schools create a WhatsApp group ahead of school starting.

4. Focus on the Positives

Remind yourself of the positive aspects of school for your child: making new friends, learning new things, and growing in independence. Think about the fun stories they’ll bring home and the pride you’ll feel in watching them flourish!

5. Practice Self-Care

Don’t forget to take care of yourself during this transition. Make time for activities that relax and recharge you, whether it’s a quiet cup of tea, a walk in the park, or chatting with a friend. Managing your stress levels will help you be more present and calmer for your child.

6. Set Realistic Expectations

Give yourself and your child time to adjust. It’s normal for both of you to take a few weeks to settle into the new routine. Be patient and kind to yourself during this period.

When to Seek Extra Support

If your anxiety feels overwhelming, persistent, or starts to interfere with your daily life, it might be helpful to talk to someone. You could start with your partner or a mate, or even seek out therapy if you think that might be useful.

Starting school is a significant milestone, and it’s natural to feel a mix of emotions as the big day approaches. By preparing, staying positive, and taking care of yourself, you can manage your anxiety and help you and your little one have a smooth, happy start to their school journey!