As students prepare to head back to the classroom, parents are checking off school supply lists, buying new clothes and getting back into routines. But experts say preparing children emotionally for a new school year is just as important.
Whether your child is starting kindergarten, moving to middle school or simply entering a new grade, it’s normal for them to feel nervous about the transition.
Dana Sheridan, M.A., LPC, a counselor at The Village School, encourages parents to start conversations before the first day of school.
Rather than assuming everything is fine, ask your child what they’re excited about and what worries them most. Listening to their concerns and responding with encouragement can help ease anxiety.
Another way to help children feel more comfortable is by visiting the school before classes begin. Meet the teacher, tour the classroom, and become familiar with the campus. Knowing what to expect can make the first day feel less overwhelming.
Sheridan also recommends establishing a strong relationship with your child’s teacher early in the school year.
“If you have a partnership, parents can message the teacher, ‘Hey, we had a rough night,’ so they’ll be able to notice some of those things. If they do have to have difficult conversations, it just makes it that much easier,” Sheridan said.
As the school year begins, parents should also encourage independence rather than solving every problem for their child.
“Try to teach them that they need to problem solve. If you’re a parent who’s going to jump in all the time, you’re almost hindering their development. Overhelping is just as bad as underhelping,” Sheridan said.
Experts also remind parents that teachers are adjusting to a new school year as well. If concerns arise, it’s best to communicate directly with your child’s teacher before escalating the issue to school administrators.
Tips to help your child adjust to a new school year
- Ask your child what they’re excited or worried about.
- Keep conversations positive and reassuring.
- Visit the school and classroom before the first day, if possible.
- Introduce yourself and build a relationship with your child’s teacher.
- Encourage your child to solve age-appropriate problems independently.
- Be patient with teachers as everyone adjusts to the new school year.
- Address concerns with the teacher first before contacting school administrators.
Helping children feel prepared and supported before the first day of school can make the transition smoother and set them up for a successful school year.