Helping Children Transition Back to School After the Holidays

Helping Children Transition Back to School After the Holidays

The start of a new school year can bring a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially after the relaxation and freedom of the school holidays. It’s quite common for children to feel a little uneasy as they return to their routines. Whether it’s the early mornings, the pressure of academic expectations, or the social aspects of school, this transition can be challenging for many.

Understanding that this apprehension is normal can help parents and caregivers provide the right kind of support to ease their child’s transition. Here are some tips and insights on how to help children adjust to the new school year with less stress and more confidence.

Recognising and Normalising Apprehension

A certain level of anxiety or unease before returning to school is completely normal. Most children experience this as they adjust back to the school routine, especially if the previous term had its challenges. Research shows that a bit of anxiety before facing a new situation is natural, as it helps the brain prepare for what’s ahead.

Acknowledging a child’s feelings can go a long way in helping them feel understood. For example, saying, “I understand that going back to school can feel a bit overwhelming,” helps children feel supported and less isolated in their feelings.

Gradually Reintroducing Routines

The transition from the unstructured time of holidays to the more routine-driven school days can be significant for many children. Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that a gradual return to regular sleep schedules is key to helping children adjust. Rather than making abrupt changes, easing into the new routine in the days leading up to the first day of school can be helpful.

To make this easier:

• Start shifting bedtimes earlier in small increments.

• Re-establish morning and evening routines, such as setting out clothes for the next day, preparing school bags, and adjusting study times.

• Encourage a consistent bedtime to help children feel rested and ready for the school day.

Open Conversations About the Transition

Some children may have specific concerns or fears about returning to school. This could be about their academic work, social relationships, or even something as simple as the change in daily routines. Encouraging open dialogue gives children the opportunity to express their worries, and research shows that this can be beneficial in helping them manage stress.

Listening without judgment and helping children explore their emotions creates an environment where they feel comfortable discussing any challenges they may face. Helping a child express their thoughts also encourages emotional regulation and problem-solving skills.

Setting Small Goals for the Year Ahead

Setting realistic goals for the new school year can provide children with a sense of purpose and direction. This doesn’t have to be about achieving perfect grades or excelling in every subject, it could be in different areas, such as making new friends, staying organised, or building confidence in a particular area of learning.

Breaking goals down into manageable steps can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. For instance, if a child feels anxious about a particular subject, a small goal might be to dedicate 10 minutes a day to review their notes. Research indicates that children who set achievable goals are more likely to stay engaged and motivated, which can lead to a more positive school experience.

Supporting Social Connections

For many children, school is not just about academics, it’s also about socialising with friends and peers. The return to school may bring up anxieties around friendships, peer groups, or being in a new class. It’s helpful to remember that, like adults, children may need time to re-adjust to the social dynamics of the school environment. If it is possible, encouraging children to reconnect with friends before school starts can help ease social concerns.

Having a few social strategies in mind can also be beneficial. For example, practicing introductions, how to start conversations, or offering support to classmates can make the school environment feel less daunting.

Modeling Healthy Coping Strategies

Children often look to their parents or caregivers to learn how to manage stress. Research shows that children who observe positive coping strategies, such as practicing relaxation techniques, taking time for themselves, or addressing challenges in a calm and constructive manner, are more likely to adopt these strategies themselves.

By openly discussing helpful ways on how to handle stress and demonstrating how to manage worries, parents and caregivers can help children develop their own healthy coping tools. For example, saying something like, “I sometimes feel nervous about a busy workday, but I take a few deep breaths to calm myself down,” can create an example children learn from.

When Anxiety Isn’t Just Normal

While some anxiety around returning to school is common, it’s important to recognise when it might go beyond the typical adjustment period. If a child’s anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or significantly interferes with their daily life, such as affecting appetite, sleep, or social interactions, it may indicate a deeper concern that could benefit from professional support. Signs to watch for include frequent stomach aches, withdrawal from activities, or constant worry about things beyond their control. If these behaviours persist, seeking the guidance of a psychologist can offer additional support and strategies.

The return to school can be an emotional adjustment for many children, but with patience, understanding, and support, the transition can be a positive experience. By recognising and normalising any apprehension, reintroducing routines gradually, maintaining open communication, and setting realistic goals, children can feel more confident and ready for the challenges of a new school year.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information to help support children through the transition back to school. It is not intended to replace professional advice. If your child’s anxiety or emotional struggles persist or significantly impact their daily life, we recommend seeking the guidance of a qualified mental health professional for tailored support.