Stress Spillover: Why Stability at Home and School Matters

Author: Charle Peck

Charle Peck M.Ed., MSW

A child’s home environment significantly influences their behavior, emotional well-being, and ability to learn effectively in school. When stress spills over from home to school, students often struggle to stay focused, regulate their emotions, and engage in classroom activities. Research highlights that children thrive in stable and inclusive environments where expectations are consistent between school and home. Unfortunately, many families feel overwhelmed and lack access to the tools they need to create these supportive spaces. This disconnect can result in heightened stress for students, leading to disruptive behaviors, absenteeism, and poor academic performance.

To bridge this gap, schools must actively involve parents in developmental initiatives that equip them with strategies to support their children at home. For example, schools can organize workshops that teach parents techniques to foster emotional regulation or communication skills that mirror what children are learning in school. Additionally, creating shared language between educators and parents ensures consistency and reinforces these skills in both environments. When schools partner with parents, they create a holistic support system that not only strengthens student outcomes but also fosters a more connected and thriving school community. Collaboration between educators and families leads to better academic and emotional outcomes, proving that parent partnerships are essential to student success.