Helping Kids Through Back-to-School Transitions
Back-to-school season can bring a mix of excitement, nerves, and growing pains for kids and parents alike. One day, your child might be thrilled to see friends again, and the next, they’re overwhelmed by homework, new routines, or just the pressure of change. As parents and caregivers, you can make this transition smoother by offering both structure and emotional support.
Acknowledge the Big Feelings
It’s normal for kids to feel anxious, sad, or even irritable as they adjust. Instead of brushing off those feelings with “You’ll be fine,” try validating them:
“It makes sense you’re nervous about a new teacher.”
“Lots of kids feel this way. Let’s figure out what might help.”
Validation builds trust and gives kids the courage to talk about their struggles. It is important to remember that you are a team with your child. Building a trusting and validating relationship will make your child feel safe to start any new journey, especially back-to-school!
Routines Are Your Best Friend
Children thrive on predictability. Establishing a consistent morning and bedtime routine can reduce stress. Lay out clothes the night before, pack lunches together, or create a calm “wind-down” ritual before bed (like reading or drawing). Establishing a visual schedule is another interactive way to have your child be a part of their routine with you. When your child feels a part of the process, it provides a sense of autonomy and independence! Small habits provide stability when everything else feels new.
Stay Connected
Even as children grow, they need reassurance. A quick note in their lunchbox, a few minutes of one-on-one time after school, or asking specific questions (“What was something that made you laugh today?”) shows them you’re interested and available.
Children also want to feel truly heard. Making space for connection at dinner, bedtime, or even during car rides shows them that their thoughts and feelings matter. The key is quality over quantity—sometimes just ten minutes of undivided attention, without phones or distractions, helps children open up. Try letting them choose the topic of conversation or the activity, whether that’s building with Legos, baking together, or walking the dog. These everyday moments build trust and create a natural rhythm of checking in.
When kids feel connected, they are more likely to share worries, celebrate successes, and turn to you when challenges come up. By weaving connection into your daily routines, you give your child both comfort and confidence as they navigate the ups and downs of school life.
Encourage Independence
Back-to-school is also about building confidence. Encourage your child to take small steps on their own—maybe walking into school without a parent, or speaking up to ask a teacher a question. Fostering small doses of independence will have your child feeling capable and proud! Celebrate these wins, no matter how small.
When Extra Help is Needed
Some kids need more than reassurance and routines. If your child is experiencing sleep changes, frequent stomachaches, or ongoing distress about school, it might be time to check in with their teacher, school counselor, or a therapist. Early support makes transitions smoother and helps prevent bigger struggles later on.
Remember: transitions are temporary, but the skills you help your child build now—resilience, coping, and self-confidence—will carry them well beyond this school year.
Blog written by: Sabrina Kalontarov (Clinical Intern)
