August 5, 2025

Parents Helping Children and Teens Transition Back to School

As summer ends and a new school year approaches, many children and teenagers face a mix of excitement and anxiety. It’s very important for parents to help children manage anxiety during this transition. Here are some ways to help your child or teen feel confident and prepared to return to school:

1. Re-establish Routines
   Begin adjusting sleep and wake times a week or two before school starts. Gradually reintroduce planned and structured mealtimes, screen limits and homework routines to help reset their internal clock. Doing so will help your child better manage any anxiety they may feel.
2. Talk Openly About Expectations
   Have conversations about what the new school year might bring such as new teachers, classes or social situations. Encourage your child to express any concerns, and offer reassurance while validating their feelings, both positive and negative ones.
3. Create a Positive Environment
   Promote a positive outlook to learning by showing interest in your child’s subjects, teachers and activities. Celebrate small successes and encourage effort rather than perfection. A focus on being perfect is more likely to increase your child’s anxiety.
4. Stay Involved
   Stay connected with teachers and stay informed about school policies and schedules. Parental involvement sends a message to both your child and their school that education is a priority for your family.
5. Promote Emotional Wellness
   Help your child manage anxiety and stress by encouraging open dialogue, practising mindfulness or relaxation techniques and modelling other healthy coping strategies.
6. Ensure Basic Needs Are Met
   Make sure your child gets enough sleep, nutritious food and physical activity. These basic needs greatly affect their mood, energy and academic performance.

Back-to-school season can be a time of growth and opportunity. By providing consistent support, parents can help their children start the year with readiness and confidence and minimise the possibility that they will become anxious. However, if your child has difficulty adjusting to the demands and expectations of the new school year, you might consider psychotherapy, psychological therapy or counselling.