Back to School

By Cara Yochai, PT, DPT

“You’re off to great places.  Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”- Dr. Seuss

It is that time of year again.  Summer is ending and a new school year is starting.  With a new school year comes new opportunity for growth and learning.  School might be difficult for your child, perhaps there is anxiety associated with starting in a new school, meeting a new teacher, or making new friends.  Try to find ways to make your child feel like they have something they are able to control in this time of new things. This might mean giving your child more choice in what they wear to school, with your approval of course.  

If there are concerns about being able to pay attention in class or sit still for long periods, discuss them with your child’s teacher at the start of the year.  You and your child’s teacher may be able to brainstorm activities that improve your child’s performance in the classroom, without signaling them out in a negative way.

• Wiping the board

  • Gives your child a chance to get up and move

  • Sense of helping to make a difference
    

• Sitting on the rug

  • Find a comfortable position for your child; all children do not have to sit the same way and changing positions should be acceptable if sitting for long periods

  • If your child is unable to sit for long periods without back support, perhaps laying on belly is acceptable as an alternative to sitting up

  • As we have shared previously, avoid “W-sitting”

    • Sit with legs crossed

    • Sit with legs out straight in front

    • Sit with one leg bent and one leg straight in