5 Tips to Reduce Back to School Anxiety

As we transition from summer to the back-to-school season, many families, including mine with our three daughters, are preparing for the new school year. This period can be exciting but also anxiety-inducing, particularly for children with sensory sensitivities. At Sensory Assist, we deeply understand these challenges. To help, we have five tips to help you rescue the anxiety that comes with the transition back-to-school.

Establish a Routine Early
Maintaining a consistent daily routine helps provide a sense of stability and predictability, which can be comforting for children experiencing anxiety. Focus on regular bedtimes, structured mealtimes, and designated periods for homework and relaxation. Creating and displaying a simple, visual schedule at home can also assist your child in understanding and anticipating what part of their routine comes next, easing their anxiety about the unexpected.

Create a Calming Homework Area
Set up a dedicated space for homework. We recommend introducing the Wobble Cushion to your child’s study area at home. Its comfortable seating surface and soft silicone knobbles provide the perfect amount of sensory input, helping children stay engaged and focused during homework sessions. Just like in the classroom, this unique seating experience promotes better attention and attentiveness, making it an excellent addition to any study nook.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into your child’s routine can be greatly beneficial, especially for those with sensory sensitivities. Our Ear Defenders can enhance this experience by providing a quiet, more focused environment. By reducing overwhelming noise levels, they help prevent sensory overload and reduce the risk of distress caused by noise-induced sensitivity. Whether it's during a mindfulness session, relaxation time, or simply to create a peaceful space, our ear defenders are a reliable tool for sensory support, helping your child find calm in a noisy world.

Better Sleep for Reduced Anxiety
A restful night’s sleep is essential in reducing anxiety and helping children approach each day with confidence. Our Lycra Bed Sock is designed for this purpose. Providing deep-pressure comfort, it goes beyond being a mere bed covering; it's a sensory solution. The snug embrace of the Lycra Bed Sock offers a calming hug-like sensation, significantly soothing an overstimulated nervous system. This promotes relaxation and enhances sleep quality, making it an invaluable part of your child's bedtime routine.

Use Sensory Tools for Enhanced Focus
Every child is unique, especially when it comes to sensory needs. To support their individual needs and help them maintain focus during class, we offer a diverse range of sensory tools designed to aid concentration. We encourage you to explore our sensory support tools to discover the perfect fit for your child. And remember, our team is always here to provide personalised recommendations to ensure you find exactly what your child needs for a successful and focused learning experience.

We hope these tips and tools will make the transition into the new school year smoother and more enjoyable for you and your child. As you navigate the challenges and triumphs of this academic year, remember that Sensory Assist is here to support you every step of the way. Wishing you a wonderful and successful school year ahead – you've got this!

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