Easing the Back-to-School Transition: Supporting Kids Academically and Emotionally

The school year has officially started, and while routines are beginning to settle, many children are still adjusting—both academically and emotionally. Whether your child is getting used to a new grade, reuniting with classmates, or tackling new academic challenges, the first few weeks of school can bring a mix of excitement, stress, and uncertainty.

Here are a few ways you can continue supporting your child both academically and emotionally as the school year gets underway:

1. Reinforce Routines

Children thrive on predictability. Now that school has started, keep routines consistent:

• Stick to regular wake-up and bedtime schedules

• Maintain structured mealtimes

• Keep a steady evening routine with time to unwind and disconnect from screens

• Set aside a consistent homework time and quiet space for schoolwork

These habits help kids feel more secure and focused during the school week.

2. Support Academic Confidence

It’s common for students to feel overwhelmed at the start of the year. You can help by:

• Checking in on how schoolwork is going

• Offering help with homework, but allowing space for independence

• Using everyday moments for learning (e.g., grocery store math, reading together)

• Reaching out to teachers if your child seems frustrated or discouraged

If your child struggled last year, now is a good time to line up tutoring or learning support to build confidence early.

3. Validate and Name Emotions

Kids may not always be able to express how they’re feeling. Help them recognize and manage their emotions:

• "It sounds like you're a little nervous about your new math class. That makes sense."

• Validate their feelings without rushing to solve everything

• Teach coping strategies like deep breathing, journaling, or movement breaks

  
  

4. Promote a Growth Mindset

The beginning of the school year is a great time to reinforce the idea that learning is a journey:

• Praise effort, not just outcomes

• Share examples of times you've learned from mistakes

• Encourage curiosity and resilience over perfection

  
  

5. Stay Emotionally Connected

Even as routines pick up, emotional connection remains key. Try:

• Daily check-ins like, "Tell me one good and one hard thing about today."

• Building in time for special moments after school

• Letting your child know you're there to support them no matter what

  
  

Final Thoughts

The early weeks of school are full of adjustment, growth, and opportunity. By staying engaged, listening closely, and supporting both your child's academic and emotional needs, you’re helping lay the foundation for a strong and successful school year.