Prioritizing Wellness During the School Year

The new school year brings excitement and fresh challenges for families. Prioritizing wellness and establishing new routines can help everyone adjust and thrive. Here are some practical ways to support your own and your children’s well-being throughout the year.

Checking in With Children

Children may feel anxious as they adjust to new classmates, classrooms, or school buildings. Watch for changes in their mood, behavior, or physical symptoms that could indicate stress such as:

• Sleep disturbances
• Loss of appetite
• Increased irritability
• Less energy
• Sadness or crying
• Nausea or dizziness
• Refusal to go to school

If these signs persist, your child may be experiencing school-related anxiety. While children are resilient, seek professional support if needed.

Taking Care of Yourself

As school resumes, working parents and caregivers can use these practical tips to better balance work and family life:

• Set reasonable expectations. Set realistic goals for each day or week, focus on high-impact tasks, and give yourself grace.
• Develop a schedule. Establish routines that fit your work and family needs, and group tasks like chores or activities to help everyone stay organized.
• Set boundaries. If you feel stretched between caregiving and work, set boundaries to manage your energy and be more present where it matters.
• Create healthy habits. Prioritize good sleep, healthy meals, and regular exercise. Plan workouts around your schedule to stay energized throughout the day.
• Make good use of weekends. Use weekends to relax, recharge, and spend time with family or enjoy some alone time, everyone needs a break from daily responsibilities.
• Ask for help. Reach out to your network for support when needed. Be open with family and coworkers about challenges and ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.

It’s important to identify unhealthy coping habits and replace them with positive options like meditation, exercise, or connecting with a friend.

Conclusion

As school resumes, parents and children may feel overwhelmed. Explore healthy coping strategies, use available resources, and seek support from your manager or a healthcare professional if stress or burnout persists. Download the bulletin for more details.