Mental Health and Well-Being - Returning to School Routine

Together for Mental Health: Everyone, Everyday

Developing positive mental health is important to academic achievement and overall well-being.

We hope you're settling back into the school routine after the winter break but we know that sometimes this can be difficult. As we continue our first week back and move towards exams, here are some tips to help you transition smoothly:

1. Stick to Your Routine: Keep going to bed and waking up at your school times to stay on track.
2. Stay Organized: Make sure your backpack, school supplies, and any homework are ready each day.
3. Healthy Habits: Eat healthy foods and get some exercise to keep your energy up.
4. Review and Reflect: Take a moment to review what you've learned so far and think about your goals for this term.
5. Stay Positive: Focus on the fun activities and new things you'll learn this term.
6. Reconnect with Friends: Keep reaching out to your friends and have fun together.

Let's finish up this semester on a good note! Keep up the great work and remember you can always talk to any caring adult if you are struggling. 

Parent/Guardian/Caregiver Information - Helping Your Child Return to School After Winter Break

Winter break can sometimes add some fun into an otherwise dull, cold time of year. But when the festivities end in the new year, kids often struggle with the transition back to routine, rules, and homework. So how can you help your whole family get back into the swing of things? Follow these tips to support your children as they begin a new calendar year at school:

1. Re-establish Routines:

• Sleep Schedule: Although parents and caregivers may let their kids stay up late or sleep in during special occasions they should try to transition to their regular sleep patterns before returning to school. 
• Morning Routine: Practice the morning routine, including getting dressed, having breakfast, and preparing school materials.

2. Create a Positive Mindset:

• Talk About School: Discuss what they are looking forward to and any concerns they might have. Encourage a positive attitude towards returning to school.
• Set Goals: Help them set achievable goals for the new term, such as improving grades or joining a new club.

3. Encourage Healthy Habits:

• Nutrition: Provide balanced meals and snacks to keep their energy levels up.
• Exercise: Encourage physical activity to help reduce stress and improve focus.

4. Address Anxiety:

• Listen: Be attentive to any anxieties or fears they may have about returning to school.
• Reassure: Offer reassurance and remind them of past successes and their ability to handle challenges.

5. Plan for Extracurricular Activities:

• Balance: Help them balance schoolwork with extracurricular activities to ensure they have time for both.
• Interests: Encourage participation in activities they enjoy to foster social connections and personal growth.

6. Be Patient and Supportive:

• Adjusting Period: Understand that it may take a few days for your child to fully adjust back to the school routine.
• Support: Offer continuous support and encouragement throughout this transition period.

7. Celebrate Small Wins:

• Acknowledge Efforts: Celebrate their efforts and achievements, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and motivation.