The start of a new school year always brings a mix of emotions. Some kids can’t wait to see their friends and show off their new backpacks, while others feel nervous about walking into a new classroom or keeping up with schoolwork. For parents, it can be tough to know how to make the transition smoother. Mental health is just as important as good grades, and the beginning of the school year is the perfect time to set the stage for a healthy, balanced routine.
One of the most helpful things families can do is talk about the nerves. Feeling anxious about going back to school is completely normal, even for children who seem confident. Letting your child know it’s okay to feel that way, and even sharing times when you’ve felt nervous starting something new, helps them feel understood and reassured. Sometimes just hearing, “I get it, and it’s normal,” is all they need.
Another way to support kids is by easing back into a routine. Summer often means late nights, flexible mealtimes, and less structure. While that flexibility is part of the fun, returning to predictable rhythms can help kids feel safe and prepared. Setting consistent bedtimes, reestablishing regular meals, and creating a steady after school rhythm, whether that’s homework, playtime, or winding down together, goes a long way toward making the days feel manageable.
It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of stress that go beyond the usual back to school jitters. Occasional complaints about school are normal, but ongoing refusal to attend, frequent unexplained stomachaches or headaches, withdrawal from friends or favorite activities, or a sudden drop in grades may point to something deeper. If these changes last for more than a week or two, it could be a sign your child needs extra support.
Staying connected through conversation makes a big difference, but it doesn’t always happen with a direct “How was your day?” Kids are more likely to share in casual moments, like in the car, at dinner, or before bedtime. Asking open questions such as, “What was the best part of today?” or “What was tricky about today?” encourages more thoughtful answers and gives kids space to open up at their own pace.
Back to school season can be exciting and overwhelming all at once, for kids and parents alike. If your child is having a hard time adjusting, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Revidas, our team partners with families to build coping skills, strengthen confidence, and make the school year feel less stressful. If you think your child could use some extra support this fall, reach out to us. Together, we can help them start the year off strong.
