The beginning of a new school year can be difficult, particularly for students with social anxiety disorder (SAD). As a parent, it can be hard to know how best to help your child. Below are some tips to help prepare your child for school, and ensure that the experience is a positive one.
- Learn about SAD. Understanding the disorder will make it easier for you to provide the support that your child needs to attend school.
- Build self-esteem from an early age with verbal and physical demonstrations of affection, compliments, and encouragement to face fears one step at a time.
- For younger children, read books about shyness, self-esteem and bullying. For older children, suggest novels or watch movies together about the same topics.
- Be open to talking about feelings. Be an empathetic listener and resist giving advice unless asked for it.
- Be a good role model and stay calm when your child is anxious.
- On the other hand, let your child know that you sometimes get nervous too. Doing so will make it easier for her to talk to you about her fears.
- If your school does not already have a program in place, suggest that they adopt one designed to prevent anxiety at school such as the "Friends" program.
- If a mental health professional has devised a treatment plan for your child, be sure to share this information with your child's teacher.
- Anticipate difficult transitions such as the first day of school. Plan to arrive early or late if either will make it easier for your child.
- If your child misses a lot of school due to anxiety, support a gradual return to class with shortened days if necessary.
- Praise and reward any small victories that your child has at school, such as talking with another student or answering a question in class. Encourage him to build on small successes.
Sources:
Shyness and Social Anxiety Treatment Australia. Children and Social Anxiety. Accessed June 21, 2010.
