Is your child overstimulated? Lincoln experts on the signs to watch for as school begins

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – As kids transition back to school, the adjustment may be rocky for some.

Janie Funk, the clinical director at Behaven Kids, said there are some telltale signs that your child might be overstimulated by the new schedule.

“You may see that your child is complaining of stomachaches, they may be vomiting, they may be having a hard time regulating their energy,” Funk said. “Those are all signs of maybe your child is having some difficulty.”

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The first week of school can be an exciting time, but it can also be stressful.

Especially if it’s a child’s first year.

And experts say it’s OK if it takes some time to adjust.

“Don’t be alarmed if it does take a little bit of time,” said Dave Miers, the senior director of behavioral health at Bryan Health. “But also know that your child will get adapted to that new routine.”

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Miers said if your child’s behavior is off after more than two weeks, it may point to a bigger problem.

He said they might be sleeping less, eating less and acting distant.

“It’s important to be a good listener as a parent,” he said. “Find out, ‘What are they feeling?’ But then reach out and talk to the school and find out what resources they have that can help you and help your child.”

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Miers said that for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or a diagnosed mental health condition, it can be harder to make a connection with teachers or peers.

In some cases, it might be beneficial to set up a behavioral plan for school and talk about it with teachers.

And for all students, a solid routine at home will help them adjust faster to a new schedule.

Miers said if homework, activities or jobs are causing overstimulation for older kids, it’s important to set aside time every day to relax and do things they enjoy.

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