As children grow, the challenges they experience at school often change along with them. Younger children may be learning how to spend the day away from caregivers and adjust to new routines, while middle and high school students are often navigating increasing academic pressure, extracurricular activities, friendships, and growing independence.
While the challenges children face changes over the years, their need for support from parents, caregivers, teachers and other trusted adults remains.
Building confidence in elementary school
For younger children, separating from caregivers can be one of the most difficult parts of starting school. Talking with children about what to expect and giving them opportunities to share their worries can help make the transition feel more manageable.
Some families may find creating a small ritual helps children feel more comfortable and connected to home throughout the school day. Carlee Mahnken, LSCSW, a school-based therapist with USD 248 Girard, shared one that she uses with her own child. “Every single morning before school, she has me draw a heart in her hand and on mine. The heart serves as a symbol, reminding her when she misses me, that I’m still with her,” Mahnken said.
Other children may find comfort in a bracelet, necklace, or another school-appropriate item that reminds them of home. Parents can also help by talking through the plan for the day ahead of time, including who will take them to school, who will pick them up, and what they can look forward to after the day is over.
Communication with the school is equally important. Parents can help support their child’s emotional well-being by keeping teachers, counselors, and other school staff informed about significant changes or challenges happening at home. Likewise, schools can help parents understand the resources and support systems that are available to students.
If a child consistently complains of physical symptoms, experiences intense emotional breakdowns around school, or expresses fear about attending school, communicating with the school and seeking additional support can help.
Middle and High School: managing pressure and finding balance
As students get older, the demands on their time often increase. Academics, extracurricular activities, friendships, and other responsibilities can create pressure that feels difficult to manage. While being involved in activities can provide important opportunities for growth and connection, students should also consider whether their schedules are leaving room for rest and balance.
Breanna Ward, LSCSW, a school-based therapist with USD 250 Pittsburg, encourages parents to talk with their children about what they gain from each activity and whether the benefits outweigh the stress. “If that stress never goes away, is it worth it?” Ward said. “See if there is room to take some things off their plate so life feels more balanced.”
When students begin feeling overwhelmed, communicating with trusted peers, parents, counselors, or other supportive adults can make a difference. Having someone to listen can help students feel less alone and may lead to new ideas, coping strategies, or solutions.
Developing healthy coping skills is also important. Deep breathing, grounding exercises, mindfulness, journaling, physical activity, and spending time with supportive people are just a few ways students can manage stress. Irvin Garcia-Augur, LMSW, a therapist at CHC/SEK’s Pittsburg North location, encourages young people to practice coping strategies consistently rather than waiting until they are in the middle of a stressful situation to try something new. Like studying for a test, practicing these skills ahead of time can make them easier to use when they are needed most.
Finding Support
CHC/SEK provides school-based behavioral health services in partnership with school districts across Southeast Kansas. Our school-based therapists help make behavioral health support more accessible by providing care where students spend much of their day.
Our school-based therapists serve students in communities throughout Southeast Kansas, including:
- Arma / USD 246 Northeast
- Caney Valley / USD 436
- Cherokee and Weir / USD 247 Southeast
- Columbus / USD 493
- Frontenac / USD 249
- Girard / USD 248
- Labette County / USD 506
- Pittsburg / USD 250
CHC/SEK also provides behavioral health services outside of school. CHC/SEK’s Behavioral Health team provides support for children, teens, and adults experiencing a variety of mental health concerns. Whether someone is struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or another challenge, seeking support can be an important step toward feeling better and building healthy ways to navigate life’s challenges. Learn more at chcsek.org/service/behavioral-health.