However, starting school or transitioning to a new school can create fear and anxiety for some children. This fear of the unknown can hinder children's school experiences and negatively affect their academic and social development. Providing service to its customers with its 150-year-old history, Generali Sigorta offered golden suggestions to overcome children's school fear and anxiety.
Consider their feelings
It is extremely important not to belittle or ignore your child's feelings. Understanding and respecting them is a critical factor in their emotional development. Instead of using phrases like "that's ridiculous" or "you'll understand when you grow up" to a child who has a fear of going to school, you should acknowledge their feelings. In this way, you support your child's emotional health and help him develop communication skills. Strengthening your emotional bond with them and allowing them to express themselves will contribute to a healthy growth process. As parents, being sensitive to their emotional needs will reinforce their sense of security.
Deal with their worries
It is extremely important to listen carefully to your child's concerns and fears. You have to make an effort to understand what is scary for them. You should make them feel that you understand their problems and that you are always there to help them. This will support your child's emotional health and confidence. You should encourage your children to freely express their feelings through open and understanding communication. You must show them that you are providing a safe space where they can share their concerns and emotional difficulties with you. Approaching with empathy will help you establish a healthy emotional bond with your child and make them feel better.
Highlight positive experiences
Highlighting your child's positive school experiences and memories can also help them reduce their inner anxiety. Reminding them of fun times with their friends at school, new learnings or praise from their teachers creates a positive atmosphere and increases your child's interest in school. Referring to their past achievements and memories they enjoyed helps strengthen their self-confidence and makes them more open to positive future experiences. At the same time, by emphasizing your child's strengths and appreciating their achievements, you increase their self-esteem. With continuous support and encouragement, your child's learning process becomes more enjoyable and successful, and a school life full of positive memories is provided.
Develop problem-solving skills
It is critical to teach your child the skills necessary to deal with difficult situations at school. These skills, which include resolving conflicts with friends, asking teachers for help, or planning classroom presentations, will help increase your child's emotional awareness and develop effective communication skills. In addition, strengthening their self-confidence and gaining problem-solving skills will contribute to your child's success in school and other areas of life. By making them feel that you will always support them and that you are by their side, you can ensure that they have a positive learning experience.
Consider seeking professional help
If your child's fear of school reaches an extreme level and negatively affects his daily life and school performance, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A psychologist or counselor who specializes in children can help your child manage this condition. Professionals can help build your child's self-confidence by using appropriate techniques and strategies to understand your child's worries and fears. Therapy, counseling sessions, or other appropriate treatment methods may be used. This process can also help support your child's emotional health and have a more positive experience at school and in everyday life. As a parent, it's important to be sensitive to your child's needs and encourage seeking professional help so that healthy development and a strong emotional bond can be formed.
