Helping Your Child Transition Back to School

Written By: Dr. Chelsea Wilcocks, Psy.D.

As summer days come to an end and the new school year approaches, many children feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. This transition can be challenging for them, but with the right support, it can also be a positive and smooth experience. Here are a few tips to help your child feel confident and ready to return to school.

Start Routines Early

Children thrive on routine, and a sudden shift from summer's relaxed schedule to the structured school day can be overwhelming. Start adjusting bedtimes and morning routines a week or two before school starts. Gradually ease your child into a school-friendly sleep schedule to ensure they're well-rested on the first day.

Talk About and Validate Their Feelings

Open a dialogue with your child about their thoughts and feelings regarding the new school year. Are they excited, nervous, or a bit of both? Normalize these emotions by sharing your own experiences or using books and stories to illustrate common back-to-school feelings. Let them know it's okay to feel a mix of emotions and that you're there to support them.

Revisit School Skills

Ease the academic transition by engaging your child in learning activities. Review reading, writing, and math skills through fun, low-pressure activities or family games. This not only refreshes their knowledge but also boosts their confidence as they return to the classroom.

Plan a Visit to the School

If possible, arrange a visit to the school before the first day. Walking through the building, locating their classroom, and meeting their teacher can reduce first-day jitters. Familiarity with the environment helps lessen anxiety and builds excitement about returning.

Create a Positive Mindset

Encourage a positive outlook on the new school year. Talk about the things your child enjoyed in previous years, such as making new friends or participating in fun activities. Focus on the opportunities ahead rather than potential challenges.

Prepare Together

Involve your child in back-to-school preparations. Let them pick out school supplies, choose their first-day outfit, or organize their backpack. This creates a sense of ownership and excitement, making the transition smoother. You may also involve your child in setting goals for the school year. These could be academic, social, or extracurricular goals. By participating in this process, your child will feel more invested in their success and have a sense of purpose as they start the year.

Monitor Screen Time

As school approaches, gradually reduce the amount of screen time your child has. Replacing screen time with more educational, social, or physical activities can help refocus their attention on learning and get them into a school-ready mindset.

Reinforce Social Skills

Over the summer, some children may become less socially engaged, especially if they’ve been spending more time at home. Encourage playdates or social activities to help them practice sharing, taking turns, and interacting with peers before school starts.

Stay Positive and Supportive

Children often pick up on their parents' emotions, so it's important to maintain a positive and supportive attitude about the school transition. Express confidence in their ability to handle the new school year and be there to listen and help with any concerns they may have.

Transitions can be challenging for children, but with your support, they can adapt and thrive in the new school year. By creating a structured, supportive, and positive environment at home, you can help ease the back-to-school transition and set your child up for success. Remember, it's okay for your child to have some apprehensions—what's important is that they know they have a loving and understanding support system to rely on and lots of love waiting for them back at home.

Here’s to a great school year ahead!

If you are looking for a provider to help support your children and family during the transition back to school, I would be happy to speak with you about how I can help!

Call today for your complimentary consultation at 954 870 2739.

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