Beyond School Supplies: 4 Tips for Building Back-to-School Confidence
This back-to-school season, be prepared with tips for supporting students’ academic success outside the classroom.
Ah, back-to-school season. For kids and parents, this can be an exciting and nerve-wracking time. New classes, new teachers and the pressure to outperform last year’s grades can all spike youth anxiety.
Amidst all these changes, finding the right after-school environment can make all the difference for youth. Boys & Girls Clubs is prepared to ease the transition into a new school year with academic support, trained staff, and technology to help all students be successful.
1. Keep Up Relationships Outside of School
Having a great school year is about more than academics – it’s about building kids’ confidence and community, especially during new transitions.
In addition to hands-on learning experiences, Boys & Girls Clubs support kids and teens in building social skills to help them communicate, interact with others, and navigate challenges.
One of our teens said, ‘My friend group got all split up. I’m going to one high school, but most of my friends are going to another. But I met Amy (at the Club) who goes to my school, so now I know someone.’
2. Have Adults Kids Can Go to For Support (Outside of Parents and Teachers)
A new school year can come with a lot of pressure and uncertainty for young people. Having a trusted adult to confide in beyond their school and home life can broaden their support system and perspective.
At Boys & Girls Clubs, trained youth mentors are available to support kids academically and emotionally during back-to-school and year-round.
3. Continue Kids’ Learning Outside of School
From art classes and science experiments to tutoring and homework help, academic programs at Boys & Girls Club reinforce what youth learn during the school day while sparking inspiration and curiosity.
At every Club, staff greet youth with the same question, “How was school today?” This not only helps staff gauge kids’ moods by 3 p.m. but directs them to after-school activities based on their interests and learning styles.
4. Be Responsive to Each Student’s Needs
Every student is different, and while back-to-school jitters are common, some students may have their own obstacles to overcome, too.
Take Isabel. After moving to the U.S. from Colombia, Isabel recalls not being able to speak English at age 11.
“Boys & Girls Club of Silicon Valley really helped me learn English,” she says. “The staff showed me so much support. They asked me how I was doing and made sure that each day I entered or left the Club, I was smiling.”
Isabel’s confidence grew through her participation in sports and arts where she was able to learn new skills and interact with peers.
Many of the young people we serve have the same goals and aspirations. Whether our Club is hosting a college visit, community service project, cooking class, or chats with local business leaders, our teens often motivate each other to get involved.
Back-to-school season can bring a whirlwind of emotions. But with the right tools, resources, and support available, students and parents can not only survive but thrive.
Find a Boys & Girls Club near you to grow your child’s love of learning outside the classroom.
