Three back-to-school conversations to boost children’s resilience and coping skills

As families across the country gear up for a new school year, Triple P – Positive Parenting Program experts say three simple conversations this week could help most children feel a little more confident and prepared, whether they’re excited, nervous, or somewhere in between.

With the rise in bullying and school-related anxiety contributing to a decline in school attendance and lower academic performance, Triple P International Country Director Carol Markie-Dadds said it’s more important than ever to find ways to strengthen children’s social, emotional, and academic outcomes.

Concerning Grattan Institute data shows approximately 40 per cent of Australian students – more than 1.2 million – miss at least one day of school every two weeks. In 9 out of 10 cases of school attendance difficulties, mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety are involved, with 92 per cent of children exhibiting clinically significant anxiety.

“School can present a mix of both positive and challenging experiences for children to navigate, but parents and carers are in the box seat to support and shape their child’s experience,” says Ms Markie-Dadds.  

“We know that parents and carers who use positive parenting strategies have a real and significant impact on their children’s mental health and wellbeing,” she said.  

Whether children are returning to school or starting for the first time, having these three conversations can help children succeed in and out of the classroom:

1. Foster a positive attitude towards school by talking optimistically about the opportunities that the year will bring. Things like learning new skills, connecting with friends, and discovering your child’s strengths. Being genuinely positive about your child’s school journey goes a long way in shaping how they experience it.
2. Encourage open and honest communication. Create a judgment-free space for your child to share any worries about schoolwork, friendships, or unkind behaviour. Listen and validate their feelings rather than dismissing concerns or jumping to solutions. Use these conversations to discuss what healthy friendships look like and simple strategies for navigating challenging social situations.
3. Establish consistent routines. Discuss and establish simple back-to-school routines together. This includes getting ready for school, participating in after school activities, managing downtime, approaching homework, and following bedtime schedules. Routines and consistency give children predictability and a sense of security, especially during what can be a challenging time of transition. 

“Family discussions don’t need to be formal or lengthy,” Markie-Dadds adds. “Look for the everyday, calm moments like when you’re in the car, at the dinner table, or at bedtime, to listen and connect with kids.”

“One of the best ways to support children’s wellbeing is based on them knowing they are loved and valued. Showing this through small, intentional words and actions can have significant long-term impacts on children’s developmental and academic success,” she said.

If anxiety is impacting your child’s day-to-day life, it may be time to chat with your GP, seek professional health advice, or check out Triple P’s evidence-based parenting support program Fear-Less Triple P Online

Delivery of the Triple P – Positive Parenting Program to parents and carers of children in Australia is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under the Parenting Education and Support Program. Parents and carers can access free, online parenting support 24/7 at triplep-parenting.net.au