The September 7th Syndrome refers to a phenomenon where first-grade students exhibit reluctance or anxiety about attending school, often occurring around the start of the academic year, specifically on September 7th.
Starting school can be a significant milestone for children, but it can also bring about anxiety and challenges. Here are some tips for parents to help their children adapt and thrive in this new environment.
Nadezhda Khasanova, a renowned educator, warns that active imaginations in children might lead to difficulties focusing in class if they haven't had enough time to finish playing before school. To prepare children psychologically for the first grade and reduce anxiety, parents can create predictable routines, ease separation anxiety, communicate openly with children about school, engage with the school, and recognise that some children take time to adjust.
School refusal, a mental health issue characterised by strong emotional distress linked to school attendance, is a common concern among parents. Common reasons include anxiety about separation from parents, social challenges, academic pressure, fear of illness, and psychosomatic symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, nausea, or difficulty breathing before school. Emotional distress manifestations like crying, clinginess, fidgeting, sleep problems, or avoidance behaviours such as refusing to get out of bed or leave the house are also indicators. Underlying health anxiety or worry about getting sick can also cause avoidance.
If anxiety is severe or persistent, it's advised to consult a pediatrician or mental health specialist for further support. Common symptoms of the September 7th Syndrome, which affects children who struggle psychologically with the responsibilities and demands of school, include colds, headaches, nausea, fatigue, general malaise, and exacerbation of chronic conditions.
Proper self-care skills, such as tying shoelaces and dressing independently, are essential for school life to avoid bullying. Nadezhda Khasanova also warns against overprotective behaviour, as school environments lack nannies.
The adaptation process to school can take an average of one to three months. During this period, it's advised to avoid enrolling children in new clubs or activities, setting unrealistic expectations, scolding them for poor grades, comparing them to classmates, or making them feel like they're not meeting expectations.
Psychologist Anna Litvinova states that school readiness isn't measured by a child's ability to read, write, or count quickly. If a child seems unprepared for school but cannot be postponed, consult a psychologist for assessment and support.
Starting school can be stressful for any child due to the new environment, multiple teachers, and peers. Children who haven't attended kindergarten, art studios, or sports clubs may struggle to adapt. Shy, anxious, or overly sensitive children may feel excessive anxiety and worry about every glance.
To help children adapt to the school routine more quickly, experts recommend a consistent daily schedule and preparing for the school year ahead of time. Parents should also play school-related games with their child to help them cope with potential fears and challenges.
Associate Professor of Psychology at Turan University, Olga Shikhova, advises against sending a child to school solely because others are doing so or due to sudden circumstances. She also warns against making unnecessary purchases for school supplies, seeking attention on social media, which can have sad consequences.
In Kazakhstan, educational schools have been accepting five-year-olds since 2019, provided they turn six by the end of the current year. Overall, early identification of school-related anxiety and consistent emotional support paired with collaboration between parents, children, and schools are key for helping children adjust and reduce school refusal behaviour.
Science can play a role in addressing school refusal by studying the underlying causes and developing suitable interventions. To promote health and wellness and improve the overall lifestyle of children, parents, educators, and mental health specialists can collaborate to ensure a supportive and adaptive learning environment. In the realm of education and self-development, it's important for parents to understand that school readiness isn't solely about academic abilities but also emotional preparedness, and seeking professional guidance can be helpful when children appear unprepared for school.
