Children often dread going back to school after school holidays. You may recognise the importance of talking to your children about this, but do you know what to say? Some of these ideas may help you start up the conversation.

A few weeks before school begins, you may want to allude to the fact that school will be starting soon. Begin now to help your child become accustomed to going to bed earlier and getting up in time to get ready for school. Talk to them about how important it is that they be rested and prepared for school.

Acknowledge your children’s emotions regarding returning to school. You may want say, “I understand you’re feeling uneasy about going back to school. Can you tell me what is causing you to be uneasy?” Ask questions that require more than a yes or no answer. See if you can get your child to verbalize their fears. If you know what they’re concerned about, you’ll have a better idea how to help them overcome those concerns.

If this is their first year of school, they may feel apprehensive about being away from you. Let them know it’s normal to want to stay home. To help them feel better about starting school, try to take them to the school to see it and possibly meet the teacher. Show them how they will be able to make new friends and learn new things. Explain to them how going to school can be fun and that you’re very proud of them for starting school.

Perhaps they had problems with other children teasing them last year and they don’t want to see those students again. Teach your children to set boundaries and to stand up for themselves without resorting to the other student’s tactics. Help them learn to remain calm when they are teased, to walk away from trouble, and how to get help from the teacher if needed. They’ll also want to learn to stay in control of their bodies and their words rather than out of control.

Do your best to listen to what your child is saying by paying attention when they talk. You want them to know that you’re interested in the things that concern them. You also want to keep lines of communication open so they’ll feel comfortable coming to you with problems they may have in the future.

Students who are moving from one school to another may have an entirely different set of reasons for not wanting to start the new year. If they are shy or have self-esteem problems, your response can make a world of difference. Try to help them find activities they can excel in that will bolster their self-esteem.

When school restarts your children may have many reasons for not wanting to return. You know the importance of talking to your children about going back to school. These suggestions may help you start the conversation but you’ll also want to listen to what they have to say so the two of you can come up with solutions together.