Back-to-school season can be a big transition for kids and caregivers. New routines, changing schedules, school-related anxiety, and busy mornings take adjustment. Whether school is starting soon or already underway, caregivers can help children and teens feel prepared, supported, and confident. Reflect together on what is working, what is not, and where extra support may help. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
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Five Ways to Help Your Family Find Its Back-To-School Rhythm
1. Prepare Supplies and Resources
Having school supplies, schedules, and plans in place can help the transition feel smoother. Check whether your child still needs a backpack, notebooks, pencils, lunchboxes, other supplies, or additional resources.2 When possible, scheduling vaccinations and wellness checkups during summer can reduce stress once school begins.1,4 Shopping together can help children feel excited and involved in the planning process.1,4
2. Co-Create the Routine with Your Child
Before school begins or during the first few weeks, involve your child or teen in creating and adjusting their routine.1 Provide support while encouraging age-appropriate independence. For younger children, use pictures, charts, or simple verbal reminders. Build in enough time so mornings do not feel stressful or rushed.1
Consistent mealtimes, physical activity, and sleep schedules throughout the year, including summer and holiday breaks, can make the transition easier.9 Practice helps build healthy habits.4,5,9
3. Practice the Routine and Discuss How it Went
Before the first day, practice the routine during a calm, low-stress time. Visiting an open house, meeting a teacher, seeing the classroom, or visiting the bus stop can help younger children feel comfortable and prepared.1,3,4,8
If school has started, reflect on how routines are working and make adjustments as needed. Treat routines as a learning process, not a success or failure. Ask what felt confusing, what went well, and what could make tomorrow easier. Be patient, acknowledge effort, and celebrate progress.6
4. Encourage Positive Connections with School
Friends, sports, favorite classes, and activities can help children and teens feel connected to school, serving as a protective factor against risky behaviors.7 Ask what they are excited about, what they have enjoyed before, and which new activities they may want to try.1 Avoid over-scheduling or overcommitting.4 Do not present school as punishment; model a calm, supportive attitude toward school involvement.1
5. Validate Emotions and Know When to Seek Help
Children and teens may feel excitement, fear, sadness, or anxiety as school begins. Ask how they feel, listen without judgment, and ask how you can support them.1 Model healthy stress reduction and age-appropriate coping techniques.8 If intense anxiety or distress continues and interferes with daily life, consider consulting a mental health professional for additional tools and assistance.8
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