A child’s wellbeing at school is just as important as their academic success. When children feel safe, happy, and supported, they are more likely to thrive both socially and academically. However, school life can sometimes be stressful, with challenges like peer pressure, academic demands, and social interactions affecting a child’s mental and emotional health. As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child’s wellbeing. Here are some practical ways to help.

Encourage Open Communication

One of the most effective ways to support your child’s wellbeing is by fostering open and honest communication. Let them know they can talk to you about anything—whether it’s schoolwork, friendships, or worries they may have.

• Ask open-ended questions about their day, such as:
  • “What was the best part of your day?”
  • “Did anything challenge you today?”
  • “How are you feeling about your schoolwork?”
• Listen actively without interrupting or immediately offering solutions.
• Validate their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to experience different emotions.

When children feel heard and understood, they are more likely to open up about their struggles.

Promote a Healthy School-Life Balance

School can be demanding, but it’s important that children have time to relax and enjoy activities outside of academics.

• Encourage hobbies, sports, or creative activities they love.
• Set aside time for unstructured play and relaxation.
• Ensure they are not overwhelmed with excessive homework or extracurricular commitments.
• Teach them time management skills to help balance schoolwork and personal time.

A well-balanced routine helps prevent burnout and keeps children motivated.

Prioritise Good Sleep and Nutrition

Physical health plays a significant role in mental and emotional wellbeing. Lack of sleep and poor nutrition can lead to irritability, stress, and difficulty concentrating.

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep based on their age.
• Encourage a balanced diet with nutritious meals and snacks.
• Limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.

When children are well-rested and properly nourished, they are better equipped to handle school challenges.

Teach Emotional Resilience

Helping children build resilience equips them to cope with stress, setbacks, and challenges.

• Encourage a growth mindset by praising effort rather than just results.
• Teach them problem solving skills and how to handle difficult situations.
• Help them recognise and manage their emotions through mindfulness or breathing exercises.
• Let them know that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growth.

When children learn to manage stress in healthy ways, they become more confident in handling school pressures.

Foster Positive Friendships

Good friendships contribute to a child’s happiness and confidence at school. Encourage your child to build and maintain positive relationships by:

• Teaching them kindness, empathy, and respect for others.
• Encouraging inclusivity and standing up for others when needed.
• Helping them navigate social conflicts in a constructive way.
• Recognising signs of unhealthy friendships or bullying and addressing them early.

Supportive friendships help children feel more secure and happy in their school environment.

Work in Partnership with Teachers and School Staff

Teachers and school staff play a vital role in a child’s wellbeing. Building a strong relationship with your child’s school can help ensure they receive the support they need.

• Stay informed about their academic progress and any concerns teachers may have.
• Attend parent-teacher meetings and school events.
• Communicate any issues your child may be facing at home that could affect their school experience.
• Encourage your child to reach out to a trusted teacher or school counselor if they need help.

When parents and teachers work together, children feel more supported both at home and at school.

Recognise Signs of Stress or Anxiety

Every child experiences stress occasionally, but persistent anxiety or emotional distress may require extra support. Be aware of signs such as:

• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite.
• Sudden drop in grades or lack of interest in school.
• Frequent complaints of headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause.
• Avoidance of school or social situations.
• Increased irritability, sadness, or withdrawal from family and friends.

If you notice ongoing struggles, talk to your child, offer reassurance, and seek professional help if necessary. Many schools have counselors or wellbeing programs that can provide additional support.

Lead by Example

Children learn a lot from observing their parents’ attitudes and behaviors. Show them how to handle stress in a healthy way by:

• Practicing self-care and managing your own stress levels.
• Demonstrating positive coping strategies, such as deep breathing or journaling.
• Maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Being open about your own emotions in an age-appropriate way.

By modeling resilience and self-care, you help your child develop these habits for themselves.

Supporting your child’s wellbeing at school goes beyond academics—it’s about creating an environment where they feel safe, happy, and supported. By encouraging communication, promoting a balanced lifestyle, fostering resilience, and working alongside teachers, you can help your child navigate school life with confidence and positivity.