The upcoming 2020 school year is about change and transitions.
Change and transitions are inevitable. It comes in many forms, some welcomed and some not.
Going back to school can trigger a slew of mixed emotions. And this year, with school life looking so different from what most teens expected, the transition is accompanied by feelings of anxiety, fear, and stress. Almost every teen I talk with is asking herself:
— What can I expect? Will I be motivated? Will I be happy? Will I succeed?
How she answers these questions determines how she will approach the transition and consequently, how she will start the new school year. Moreover, it sets a precedent for how she will handle other transitions, which makes it extremely important to foster a healthy outlook around change.
Offer reassurance.
Ease her fears and doubts by reassuring her that she is prepared, equipped, and capable. Remind her of other changes she’s handled with confidence and ease. Bring to light past obstacles she has overcome and goals she has achieved. Boost her sense of self by linking past accomplishments and actions to her strengths and values. Affirm that she has what it takes to be her best in any situation.
Give her specific tools and strategies.
In high school and college, your daughter will encounter new people, new pressures, and new challenges. To help her feel equipped to make new friends, fit in, and handle new pressures and challenges, she will need specific support. Personalized coaching sessions provide her an emotional outlet, as well as tools for responding to new situations in a healthy, responsible way.
Broaden her perspective.
Help her see that within change lies opportunity. As she expresses her thoughts, feelings, and beliefs around starting a new school year, ask her open-ended questions that foster a broad perspective. Acknowledge the challenge associated with change and help her see all sides of a new situation. Share your excitement for all the positive experiences that await her.
Celebrate her accomplishments.
Reflect on all she has learned over the years and how she has grown, personally, socially, and academically. Applaud her wins. Celebrate the transitions she’s gone through and the wisdom she’s gained as a result. This will boost her confidence and remind her that she can handle change with courage and grace.
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