Elementary Education: September 2009

3 Way to Help Kids Deal with Back-to-School Jitters

1. Focus on the positive. If your child is nervous about starting a new grade level, new sport or after-school activity, help guide his thoughts to the positive aspects of the experience. Is there a friend he knows who will be there on the first day? Will he be studying a subject he really enjoys — that is, science, music, reading? Is the coach someone inspiring?

2. Think outward. Kids love to be “in the know.” Help your child to recognize ways in which she can help other kids at school who might need some guidance or encouragement. Will there be younger children who don’t know their way around? Is there an opportunity to help as a crossing guard or on the school bus?

3. Pray together. Traditional Catholic prayers are wonderful (the Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary), but sometimes kids could use a little guided encouragement to learn how to talk to God about their anxieties and fears. Spend some time at bedtime talking to God with your child and asking God for guidance and care. Something as simple as “God, please be with me tomorrow as I meet new friends” can help calm nerves.

Encourage your child to say the prayer below. It will be a daily reminder that God is with them everyday.

Circle me, Lord.
Keep protection near
And danger afar.

Circle me, Lord
Keep hope within.
Keep doubt without.

Circle me, Lord.
Keep light near
And darkness afar.

Circle me, Lord.
Keep peace within.
Keep evil out.
— David Adam

Taken from the September 2009 issue of Take Out: Family Faith on the Go