As summer winds down and the school year begins, some kids can’t wait to return and see friends, meet new teachers, and dive into learning. For others, returning to school can evoke feelings of nervousness, uncertainty, or even fear.
The good news? With a bit of preparation, you can help make the transition smoother and less stressful for your child—whether they’re starting kindergarten, moving up a grade, or heading off to college.
Here are some practical tips to help ease back-to-school anxiety:
1. Keep the conversation positive
Talk about the upcoming school year with optimism. Highlight the exciting new subjects to explore, extracurricular activities to try, and friends to reconnect with. Focusing on the parts of school your child enjoys can make the more challenging moments—like walking into a new classroom or navigating the lunchroom—feel more manageable.
2. Get back into a routine early
Kids thrive on structure. About a week before school starts, begin shifting back to your school-year schedule: earlier bedtimes, earlier wakeups, and a consistent morning routine. Practice getting dressed, eating breakfast, and gathering supplies so the first day feels familiar instead of frantic. Even older kids and college students can benefit from re-establishing healthy sleep habits before classes begin.
3. Take advantage of orientations and open houses
If your child’s school offers a back-to-school event, consider attending it together. Seeing their classroom, meeting teachers, and learning the layout can help answer unspoken questions and reduce anxiety. Encourage your child to identify at least one friend they can connect with on the first day—it can be reassuring to know there’s a familiar face in the crowd.
4. Make time to listen—and leave a note
Let your child share their concerns openly and work together on strategies to address them. Sometimes, just knowing you’re listening can help calm their worries. On the first day, slip a short note of encouragement into their backpack or lunchbox. Even teenagers and college students appreciate a quick reminder that you’re cheering them on.
5. Watch for signs of more serious anxiety
It’s normal for kids to experience some first-day jitters, but persistent signs of distress may indicate a more serious issue. Keep an eye out for:
- Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
- Stomachaches or loss of appetite
- Mood swings or irritability
- Angry outbursts
- Refusal to go to school
If these symptoms persist, talk with your child’s pediatrician or school counselor. Strategies such as mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, journaling, or counseling can be beneficial. College students should also know where to find free campus mental health resources—and be encouraged to use them if needed.
The bottom line: The back-to-school season is a significant transition for kids of all ages. While it can bring uncertainty, it’s also an opportunity for growth and new experiences. With support, patience, and a bit of preparation, you can help your child step into the new school year feeling confident and ready.
Need a back-to-school checkup or immunizations? Call your child’s doc! Community Care offers pediatric and family medicine practices throughout the Capital Region. Find a doctor near you.