When 'Back to School' Doesn't Flow.........

2nd Sep 7:47pm

When Back To School Doesn’t Flow……

It’s that time again - a bit like new year. Time for a fresh start, new uniform, new books, and for some a totally new environment and new friends. Many young people are just off and away and settle into their new environment like the proverbial duck to water. For others, they’ll need some support and encouragement depending on age and other factors. We are all different after all and as adults find some things easier than others depending on our background and personality.

For a third goup the return to school/college can be simply too overwhelming and they may need a whole new level of input  or environment. This group may or may not have been identified as neuro diverse and additional support can be needed

I’ll be honest here; I have both personal experience and professional experience of this third group. While each young person is unique of course there is some simple advice I’d like to share purely  in the hope it helps other families who maybe finding the return to school more challenging than expected.

The most important thing to do is to give them space to talk and express themselves to you in how they are feeling and to not assume or to go into any form of ‘battle’. This can be easier said than done (what isn’t?) especially when you are late for work yourself and all struggling to get out of the door at 8:30am!

My advice is to take some time out the next weekend. Go for a walk or a drive, or do something fun and practical together. Some times its less intense to have chats this way and really listen to what’s going on. If they are very young drawing a picture maybe easlier for them to express what they are feeling or through play. Remember to look after yourself too. Times lke this impact the whole family too.

Having some strategies to help them feel calmer and  more comforble at school and having someone to talk to outside of the family too can be very beneficial. GP’s and Pastoral roles at school ar often a first port of call. Plus organisations like Young Minds, Compass and Therapists like myself. A caring adult who is independent of school and home can be easier to talk to for some, and, importantly, help them and you to find the best way forward for them.

Remember too, in life there is always another option. A new school/setting may work wonders and there is a growing and thriving Home Education community around our area again with plenty of support, help and advice and a ‘lived’ experience.

Good luck and hope it goes well for you and yours!