Back-to-School Strategies for a Smooth Start

Easing the Transition with Therapist-Approved Tips

As August rolls in, many families start to feel the shift from relaxed summer days to the structured rhythm of the school year. While this transition can bring excitement — new teachers, fresh supplies, and the return of familiar routines — it can also bring about stress, worry, or resistance from both children and parents.

At New View Psychology Group, we understand how important it is to support emotional wellness during this time of change. Below, we’re sharing practical, therapist-approved strategies to help make the back-to-school transition smoother for the whole family.

1. Start the Routine Early

Sleep and wake times often slide during summer, and jumping back into early mornings can be jarring. Begin shifting bedtime and wake-up routines at least one to two weeks before school starts. A gradual transition gives kids’ bodies time to adjust and reduces those exhausting first-week struggles. Consider reintroducing school-year morning rituals like breakfast together, packing lunches the night before, or laying out clothes to help re-establish structure.

2. Create a Visual Schedule

Younger children — and even some older ones — benefit from seeing what their day looks like. Visual schedules can help reduce uncertainty, increase a sense of control, and build independence. Include both academic and fun parts of the day (e.g., "Snack Time," "Art Class," "Play Outside") to show balance. For children with anxiety or attention difficulties, these visual cues can be especially grounding.

3. Validate Their Emotions

The start of a new school year can bring a wide range of feelings: excitement, nervousness, sadness about summer ending, or even fear of the unknown. Let your child know that all emotions are okay. Instead of jumping into reassurance ("You’ll be fine!"), try curiosity:

4. Plan Fun Transitions

End-of-summer blues are real. Help your child look forward to the school year by planning positive transition rituals. This might be a special “Back-to-School” breakfast, a new outfit shopping trip, or writing a letter to their future self about their hopes for the year. These rituals not only provide comfort but also give kids a sense of agency and joy about what’s ahead.

5. Model Calm Confidence

Children absorb the emotional tone of the adults around them. If you’re anxious about the start of school — whether it’s about logistics, academics, or social issues — they’ll likely pick up on it. Try to stay calm, optimistic, and encouraging, even if you're feeling unsure. That doesn’t mean hiding your feelings — it means showing kids how to manage emotions in healthy ways.

Bonus Tip: Create a “Worry Plan”

For children who tend to worry, consider creating a plan for how to handle stressful situations.Example: “If you feel nervous during lunch, take three deep breaths and talk to the teacher on duty.” Simple coping strategies can help kids feel more prepared and capable when facing new challenges.