Medical association urges families to support children’s school adjustment

The Cyprus Turkish Medical Association (KTTB) has urged families to give equal attention to children’s physical, mental and social wellbeing as they prepare for the new school term, Halkın Sesi reported.

The association said preparation should extend beyond buying school supplies and clothing. It advised parents to move children gradually towards school-day sleeping and waking hours, while protecting time for regular meals, adequate sleep, physical activity and play.

KTTB also recommended age- and development-appropriate limits on screen use. It said time spent on devices should not displace sleep, exercise, play, social contact or time with the family.

For children finding the return to school difficult, the association advised parents to listen without dismissing their concerns and to try to identify what may be behind the problem. It also called on families to keep in touch with schools and work collaboratively with them.

Relevant information about a child’s health, regular medication or additional support needs can be shared with schools while respecting the child’s privacy, KTTB said. The association also encouraged parents to remain alert to peer bullying and to make it safe for children to talk about their experiences.

KTTB said persistent refusal to attend school, worsening anxiety or anxiety that significantly disrupts everyday life should not be overlooked, and may require support from child and adolescent mental-health specialists. Recurring stomach aches or headaches, as well as notable changes in sleep or appetite, should not automatically be assumed to be school-related anxiety, it added. Families should coordinate with schools and seek specialist advice when needed.