Every parent is familiar with the symptoms of ‘after-school overwhelm’. You drop your child at school, happy and excited, or quiet and wistful. You pick them up from the school gates or the bus stop, and they’re exhausted and emotional, or bouncing off the ceiling.    

According to educational consultant, Kirstie Wishart, owner of The Starfish Store — a sensory specialist store based in Shellharbour — there is a “transition period” for most children at the start of the school term, regardless of their age. “Following school pickup, many children experience the challenge of extreme exhaustion or intense hyperactivity,” says Wishart. “It’s common and, in a way, it’s a compliment. You’re a safe space. They don’t have to conform at home.”

It can, however, be a challenge for care-givers, especially if they have one sibling who experiences hyperactivity whilst another child is exhausted and tearful. “This isn’t about fixing or changing a child,” says Wishart. “It’s about putting supportive ‘offerings’ in place so they have different options. Kids tend to gravitate towards what they need.” 

If your child is experiencing afterschool overwhelm, consider these helpful strategies.

Just add water

Dehydration can exacerbate exhaustion, increase anxiety, and affect mood and concentration. It’s not just about how much a child drinks, it’s also about what they drink from. “For those who are exhausted, ensure they can access water easily. For example, drinking straight from a cup or a squeeze bottle,” explains Wishart. “A hyperactive child might benefit from a bottle that requires extra ‘work’, like a water bottle with a narrow straw or a ‘curly’ straw.” This oral stimulation can help to ease excess energy. 

Rest in routine

As a child is adjusting to a new school routine, it’s beneficial to make their homelife as predictable as possible, especially in the short term. “For those who are emotionally or physically exhausted, maintaining a gentle predictable low-demand routine removes any extra anxiety or fear around ‘what am I doing now?’” says Wishart. “After a week or two, you can ease the routine. You’re creating a safe place for them to land as they’re adjusting to the school day.”

Wrap them up

“Generally, both children who are experiencing exhaustion and hyperactivity will benefit from sensory strategies that ‘wrap’ or put pressure on their body”, says Wishart. A popular technique is ‘the sausage roll’. If you have a blanket, lie your child down and roll them up in it like it’s pastry. For children who are hyperactive, however, it’s important to expend some energy before you expect them to lay down and rest. “Children experiencing hyperactivity tend to crave more intense movement, like running, rolling or jumping on a trampoline,” says Wishart. “Then follow up this activity by applying physical pressure to their body.”

Key takeaways

• Every child is different. What works for one may not work for another. And, what helps now may not be what helps next week! Stay flexible, observe and communicate with your child to find what best supports them. 
• Your child has almost certainly been doing their best to manage themselves during the entire school day. When they are finally with you it can be like a switch is flicked. See this as a compliment.
• If significant challenges persist beyond a few weeks, consider consulting with a therapist or an occupational therapist for personalised guidance.