Returning to school can be overwhelming for children. New teachers, classmates, routines, and expectations often accompany a new school year. This can be nerve-wracking for both kids and their caregivers. To help families with the transition, we consulted teachers, pediatricians, and child development experts for practical back-to-school advice.
Adjust Sleep Schedule
Start adjusting your child’s summer sleep schedule at least one or two weeks before school begins. Gradually move bedtime and wake-up times by 15-minute increments every few days until the desired schedule is achieved.
—Dr. Nilong Vyas, Pediatrician and Sleep Consultant
Reintroduce Structure
Introduce more structure into your child’s daily routine to help them prepare for the school environment. Incorporate a 15-minute block of educational content, such as a read-aloud session, math puzzle, or science experiment.
—Keisha Siriboe, Early Childhood Literacy Consultant
Address First-Day Nervousness
Remind children that almost everyone feels a bit nervous on the first day of school. Naming and describing emotions can help them feel more in control rather than overwhelmed.
—Leah Orchinik, Pediatric Psychologist, Nemours Children’s Health
Understanding School Expectations
Help ease your child’s anxiety by explaining what to expect at school. Remind them that grown-ups will be there at the end of the day to hear all about their new experiences.
—Mallory Mbalia, Director of Learning and Education
Prepare for Challenges
Discuss potential challenges with your child and plan how to handle them. For instance, if they worry about getting lost, help create a plan for what to do in that situation.
—Leah Orchinik, Pediatric Psychologist, Nemours Children’s Health
Create Goodbye Rituals
Develop a special goodbye ritual. This can include a unique phrase, a handshake, or a hug. Such rituals can provide comfort and create lasting memories.
—Jeanette Betancourt, Senior Vice President of U.S. Social Impact, Sesame Workshop
Fill Their Connection Cup
Prioritize spending time with your child before and after school. Set your alarm a bit earlier to ensure time for a morning snuggle or breakfast together. After school, spend quality time to help them unwind from the day.
—Vanessa Lapointe, Author of Discipline without Damage
Ensure Tech-Free Navigation Skills
Make sure your child knows how to handle real-world situations without relying on technology. Teach them how to seek help for an injury or deal with strangers, emphasizing that help isn’t always a button away.
—Leah Plunkett, Author of Sharenthood
Discuss Conflicts
Have regular conversations with your child about their day. Ask about the good or difficult parts and discuss any conflicts at school or home. Involve them in problem-solving to help them learn how to handle disputes.
—Thomas Lickona, Author of How to Raise Kind Kids
Affirmation and Encouragement
Use positive affirmations to build your child’s confidence. Include notes in lunch boxes or on desks with encouraging messages like “I love you” and “I’m proud of you.” These words empower children to face their day with confidence.
—Jarod Renford, First Grade Teacher in Washington, D.C.
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