It’s that time of year when kids and teens prepare to go back to school. Normally, we’d be talking about recommended vaccinations against chicken pox, hepatitis, MMR, and others. Those are still important, but 2025 certainly hasn’t been an ordinary year. This fall, doctors are also urging protection for kids’ mental health.
Dr. Anastasia Williams, director of pediatric services at SFCHC, has advice for supporting children’s emotional well-being.
When the world outside is ever-changing, keeping things predictable can make a child’s home feel safe. Routines are helpful, even over summer break. Knowing what to expect, like what times meals occur and bedtime starts every day, can be a comfort.
Limit or filter news and conversation that might be distressing for your child when they’re nearby. Just as the TDAP vaccine isn’t given to children under seven, adjust explanations to what yours can handle and understand at their age.
It’s important to have honest conversations with your children. Let them know it’s okay to ask questions and talk about what’s scaring them. Use simple, reassuring language when you talk with kids, but don’t make promises you can’t keep. Focus on what’s true and in your control. Dr. Williams offers the example, “We’re together and safe right now. If something ever happens, we have a plan.”
Having a plan for safety for your family can help everyone feel less anxious. Your plan should include:
Without scaring them, talk with your children about what to do if a parent is suddenly not available.
In stressful times, joy and lightness are especially helpful in preserving mental health. Encourage your children to play, go outside, and do things that make them happy. Connection helps too, so do things as a family and go to community events where everyone can relax and feels supported.
Just as children are watched for side effects after a vaccine, keep an eye out for sudden changes like these:
These changes in their habits may not be illness or bad behavior, but actually signs of distress or anxiety. If you’re concerned, ask a provider for help. Many schools or clinics (like SFCHC!) have counselors who are bilingual or experienced with treating trauma.
Adults still need immunizations – against the flu and Covid-19 – right? To be able to help children when things are scary, parents and caregivers need to support their own emotional health, too. Simple self-care comes in many forms, including:
Find what works for you. After all, as the saying goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Trusted resources in your community can provide support now and information and safety if you need it later. These resources can be community centers, faith groups, school counselors, or SFCHC. Encourage everyone in your family to connect in some way. Rumors and social media aren’t a great way to stay informed, but trusted local organizations and legal aid clinics are.
We don’t always know what’s going to happen tomorrow. It’s why we protect our families with vaccines, just in case. But another way to protect ourselves is to help our children learn and grow despite the chaos. If peace and principles return, they’ll find kids safe, happy, and chasing their dreams – just in case.
