Brooke Davis, owner and experienced therapist at B Well Counseling & Consulting, met with Aiken City Lifestyle recently to discuss some back-to-school tips that she finds most beneficial with elementary aged children. Davis has always had a passion for helping children that struggle with trauma, anxiety or depression, or those who find themselves on the Autism Spectrum. Davis is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Play Therapy. She enjoys working with families, children and adolescents up to the age 17. Her office is conveniently located in Houndslake Country Club.
Starting school can be scary for a child due to the unfamiliar environment and new routines. To ease this transition, Davis highly recommends driving by the school several times, walking around it, scheduling a tour and meeting the staff and teachers. These actions help familiarize children with their school, making it less intimidating and more comfortable for them on their first day.
Good communication with your child’s new teacher is crucial. Informing the teacher when your child is having a rough day or experiencing high emotions helps them understand and support your child better while in school. Establishing a code word for such days alerts the teacher to expect different behavior, ensuring they can respond with empathy and appropriate strategies, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Have your child draw a picture of their school a few weeks before the first day and a few weeks after they start. Discuss what they drew and how they discern each one, exploring their expectations and feelings. This natural, playful approach helps them express their emotions and thoughts, making the transition smoother. It also provides an opportunity to address any concerns and reinforce positive feelings about school.
Finding safe adults at school for your child to depend on is pivotal. It ensures they have trusted support during the school day, easing anxiety and fostering a sense of security. This connection with teachers and staff and knowing they have reliable adults they can turn to builds their confidence. It enhances their overall school experience, promoting emotional well-being and academic success.