3 Back to School Tips for Parents

This short blog provides 3 back to school tips for parents. It could be that your child is entering their first year of high school, starting at a new school, or entering a new grade. Maybe they will be engaging in new sports, extracurricular activities, or groups. Alongside this, their academic and social challenges will be different.

 

We all remember how hard middle or high school was. Struggling with friendship drama, relationships, grades, studying, self-esteem issues, and more. It’s a huge developmental era, where we’re figuring out who we are, or what we want to be.During this time, you may also notice changes in your child’s behaviors. 

 

This could look like an increase in anxiety, showing signs of depression, getting upset easily, and more. Perhaps your child has been less expressive, just replying back that their day was “fine”. That’s okay, and to be expected. While your child navigates through this time in their life, here are 3 quick tips for you for helping them feel supported!

 

Teen therapy in Simi Valley, CA holds sessions both in-person and virtually. We understand that your kid may have a jam-packed schedule, and want to accommodate that. Make sure to read our blog on What Parents Can Expect for Teen Therapy.

 

3 Back to School Tips for Parents: Provide regular encouragement for your teen

Struggling with self-esteem is a common issue for adolescents. Especially with social media, it’s common that your child may be comparing themselves a lot to others. They may also be doing this in the classroom, on the sports field, or in other groups. Whether it’s theater, music, arts – they might be developing some insecurities. 

 

It could be that they don’t open up to you much. You’re not really sure where their head is at, how they view themselves, or if they are struggling with this. This can show through other mental health symptoms, though, such as self-isolating, quick to defensiveness, self-harming, and more.

 

Even if you feel that they’re feeling good and on top of things, they still deserve recognition for their accomplishments. Hearing the words, “I’m proud of you”, really does mean a lot to your kid. Acknowledging that you see their efforts, regardless of the outcome, helps them feel motivated and boosts their self-esteem. 

 

You can encourage your child to advocate for themselves in the classroom, find ways to get involved yourself, and more. Especially if your kid may have a learning disability, there are support options for them.

 

Working with a Simi Valley therapist connects you to a range of resources for your child at school. Make sure to read our blog on How to Be an Emotionally Supportive Parent!

 

3 Back to School Tips for Parents: Ask questions and show interests in their schedules

Let’s say that you have several children in different grades in school. Understandably, you’ll get their schedules and classes a bit mixed up at times. However, your teen will feel acknowledged and recognized when you make intentional efforts to remember. They may feel more open to sharing their day-to-day life and including you in it!

 

It only takes a quick sit-down conversation to catch up with them and stay in the loop. We can get overwhelmed by so many different factors throughout the day. This can include our own work/school schedules, managing other children or family members, and more. At the end of the day, you might find yourself drained. 

 

However, being intentional to initiate a conversation with them can be key. This may look like doing so over the dinner table, or asking them to go on a walk with you. You may also want to hangout with them in different settings for one-on-one time. Regardless of what you do, have each other put down the phones and connect.

 

This provides opportunities for you to check in with them and see if they need support. They can also share events that they’re proud of, such as achievements or assignments. Nonetheless, it’s important to be involved in your teen’s life. As they’re developing mentally, emotionally, and physically, they need you by their side!

 

Teen therapy in Simi Valley, Ca provides teens with the skill to develop self-awareness. Make sure to read our blog on What Can Parents Expect for Teen Therapy?

 

3 Back to School Tips for Parents: Take a deep breath 

One big inhale…one big exhale. Take a deep breath. It’s normal that during this time, your child is seeking autonomy in their lives. This could look like wanting to spend more time with friends, be out of the house, and more. They may want to be able to make more of their own decisions or have a later curfew. 

 

Alongside this, you may notice behavioral changes in your teen. One common change could be general teenage angst. Oftentimes, teens aren’t equipped with the tools or insight to express their feelings or needs. This may cause them to feel frustrated, misunderstood, or shut down. In turn, they may project frustrations onto you and find ways to blame you for things. 

 

This is stressful for parents, and can sometimes cause a divide in your relationship with your teen. With intentional efforts to support your teen, as well as yourself, you can avoid this occurring. It’s important to not take these things personally, and realize that your teen is doing the best they can. 

 

You might want to take moments to yourself to have your own space, practice self-care, and more. Hold space for your teen as well, and continue to show encouragement and interest in their lives. Teens tend to come around once they feel they’ve got things figured out. Parenting teenagers is no easy feat, and is a day-by-day process!

 

Individual therapy for parents provides you with your own space to process or discuss everyday stressors. You may also have your own trauma history, are struggling with depression or grief, or more. Therefore, give us a call today for a free consultation on therapy in Simi Valley!

 

In-person therapy in Simi Valley is ideal for those seeking a separate, safe space from their home. Check out our blog on Online Therapy or In Office Therapy to understand what format is best for you. Another great blog to read is ours on if you need Therapy or Medication to address your issues.

 

By seeking out support, you can begin your journey to feeling relief. You don’t have to go through finding the right level of support alone, either. By clicking here, you’ll read our blog on Information About Simi Valley Therapists.

 

Consider calling our therapy group at (805) 774-1506 for a free consultation on how you or a loved one can get started today!

 

Seek out a validating, safe environment with us today. We will help you get to where you want to be. Our therapists provide trauma therapy, teen therapy, individual adult therapy, LGBTQIA+ therapy, anxiety therapy, depression therapy, family therapy, and more in-office in Simi Valley, CA.