Back to School: A Fresh Start for Everyone
September 10, 2024
The start of a new school year is a time full of anticipation, opportunities, and challenges for students, parents, and teachers alike. This period is more than just a return to the classroom; it’s an opportunity to reset, create new routines, and foster a supportive community where everyone can flourish.
Whether you’re a student facing new challenges or an adult guiding young people through them, this season offers the chance to embrace growth and healing.
Managing Stress & Anxiety During the School Year
Returning to school can feel overwhelming with the pressures of tests, time management, and social dynamics. However, simple coping strategies can help manage stress effectively:
Mindfulness Exercises
Engage in daily mindfulness practices like deep breathing or focusing on the present moment. These techniques can calm the mind and reduce anxiety:
Try using Insight Timer for free guided meditations. Explore their English and Spanish versions here: Insight Timer | Insight Timer Español.
Incorporate Walking Meditation into your routine. This practice helps ground you in the present and can reduce stress. Save our Walking Meditation exercise, or watch our video where we talk you through it.
Square Breathing is a simple yet effective technique to help manage anxiety and improve focus. Learn how to practice Square Breathing with our guide below.
Routine Building
Establish a routine that includes time for relaxation and self-care. Setting aside time each evening to unwind can make a difference.
We love this recommendation from the Calm App on creating a balanced daily routine: Daily Routine Tips.
Another fun way to dedicate time to self-care is through our Self-Care Bingo card. Download it and find inspiration for taking care of yourself.
Seeking Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Whether it’s a counselor, a teacher, or a peer, support is available.
At Margaret’s Place, we offer trauma-informed counseling and peer support to help students navigate these challenges.
If your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place program, look for other school resources or local community organizations dedicated to mental health and well-being.
Follow us on social media for tips and resources throughout the school year:
Instagram: @SafeAtHomeFoundation | @Margarets_Place
Twitter: @SafeAtHomeFound
Facebook: Safe At Home Foundation
TikTok: @Margarets_Place
Building Community and Finding Support
Back to school is also about finding your place in the community—whether you’re new to the school or returning after a break.
For Students:
Be a Good Friend: Simple acts of kindness can go a long way in creating a supportive environment. Discover more about the power of friendship with this article from the Jed Foundation: The Power of Friendship.
Be an Upstander: Learn how to be an upstander and make a positive impact in your school community: How to Be an Upstander.
If You’re the New Kid: Remember that everyone has been new at some point. Take small steps to reach out, whether it’s joining a club or simply starting a conversation with a classmate. Here are some conversation starters to help you break the ice:
Starting a conversation with these topics can help you connect with others and find common ground. Good luck!
Utilize Resources: Schools often have numerous resources available to help students feel connected. Check with your teacher, advisor, or the front office to find out what’s available.
For Parents & Teachers:
Your role is vital in helping students navigate the ups and downs of the school year. Encourage open communication and be a source of stability as they adjust to new routines.
Read these tips for healthy parent-child communication: Healthy Parent-Child Communication.
Managing Your Own Stress: Adults often feel the pressure of the back-to-school season just as much as students. Prioritize self-care and manage your time effectively to avoid burnout. Refer to our Managing Stress & Anxiety recommendations above for support.
Practical Tips for Everyone
Set Realistic Goals: Whether you’re a student or an adult, setting achievable goals can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the year. Use this worksheet from TherapistAid to break down your goals: Goal Breakdown Worksheet.
You can also save our SMART Goals Tracker below to guide you through setting Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals, making it easier to monitor your success and celebrate your milestones.
Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, and other responsibilities with planners, apps, or to-do lists. Explore free downloads to find a planner that suits your needs: Free Planner Downloads.
Take Breaks: Remember that taking breaks is essential for maintaining mental health. Ensure your routine includes time for relaxation and downtime.
Margaret’s Place: Creating Safe Spaces for Students
At Safe At Home, we are dedicated to creating safe spaces where students can heal and grow. Our groundbreaking Margaret’s Place program offers trauma-informed counseling, peer leadership opportunities, and community-building initiatives, all designed to empower students and support their well-being. Since our inception, Margaret’s Place has made a profound impact, with over 181,000 youth, families, and communities served across the country. We are proud to have 20 Margaret’s Place sites in school communities across California, New York, Connecticut, and Tahiti. Through a partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, we will open 9 additional schools this year.
Read our 2022-2023 Impact Report and stay tuned for the 2023-2024 report available this fall. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified when it’s released.
As we continue to expand our program sites, we aim to extend the healing impact of Margaret’s Place beyond the four walls of the room. Through our blog, newsletters, social media, and website, we offer resources, tips, and tools to support students, families, and educators nationwide. Even if your school doesn’t have a Margaret’s Place, you can still access valuable resources to help you navigate challenges and foster a supportive community.
The start of a new school year is a chance to begin again, embrace change, and build something new. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of being the new kid, offering support as a parent or teacher, or finding your place in the community, this is your opportunity to make a difference.
At Safe At Home, we’re here to support you find peace, safety, and community as you embark on this new journey.
Let’s make this school year a time of healing, growth, and connection.
