Simple ways to tackle back-to-school anxiety with help from PBS

From new routines (or re-establishing old ones!) to learning new names and spaces, the start of the school year can feel overwhelming. Help kids build their toolbox for navigating uncertainty, adjusting to new environments and building confidence with these activities, family resources and more from PBS.

Mindfulness now, mindfulness later

Mindfulness exercises can help children (and adults) regulate emotions and navigate big feelings. Regularly practicing mindfulness techniques builds a sort of mental muscle memory, making it easier to deploy them in moments when emotions are high.

Belly breathing is a great exercise to start with. Teach your child belly breathing with this short song from Sesame Street. They can also play the Belly Breathing game online to help them practice. When you practice together, remind your kiddo they can use belly breathing to help calm down anytime and anywhere big feelings may arise.

Find more mindful resources, printables, games and videos on the PBS Wisconsin Education Early Learning page.

Practice finding your way

Getting lost on the first day of school is a common fear. (I had a nightmare about it last week!) Boost kids’ confidence in navigating less familiar places with help from the PBS KIDS series Phoebe & Jay. The show introduces everyday texts that help us throughout the day, like checklists, addresses and signs.

Go on a Sign Scavenger Hunt to familiarize your child with different signs and how to use them. First, grab a notebook and a pencil or marker. Then, head into your neighborhood or school and start looking for signs together. Invite your child to draw a picture of each sign you find and tell them what it means. A street sign might be helpful for remembering where the bus stop is. A wayfinding sign in a hallway at school might show which direction the cafeteria is in. What other signs might be helpful throughout the school day?

For more practice, play the Signs and Seek game on the PBS KIDS Games app. Players use hints and signs to find Phoebe and Jay as they play hide and seek.

Hear how others handle similar challenges

Sometimes knowing we’re not alone in our feelings can make a big difference in how we see ourselves and approach challenges.

For younger kids, the PBS KIDS Talk About series features real kids and grown-ups talking together about courage, friendship, life changes and more. They’re great for launching conversations with your child about whatever’s on their mind at the start of the school year (or any time).

For older kids and teens, check out the On Our Minds podcast. The award-winning series is produced by and for teens in collaboration with PBS News Student Reporting Labs. Season 5 is a great place to start. It features interviews with folks, including viral librarian Mychal Threets and author Viet Thanh Nguyen, on topics like belonging, overcoming imposter syndrome and figuring out who we are. Hear from a student right here in Wisconsin on an episode about family and identity.

For more ideas, games and resources for supporting kids at the start of the school year, visit the PBS KIDS for Parents Going to School page.