Back to School

All children thrive on predictability and routine, and the thought of a new school year will evoke different emotions in different children. Some will worry about the unknown: new teachers, new peer groups and so on, while other children will be looking forward to seeing their peers again.

Returning to school in September is stressful, exciting and exhausting all at the same time. Whatever their individual feelings, most children will appreciate some adult support to help them through the first few days of the term. 

Ways to help: –

1. Preparation is key.

Most children will have had a ‘change over’ day at the end of the summer term, when they will have visited their new classroom and met their new teachers. It will be worth reminding the apprehensive child of this. Check any information the school has sent home or posted online. Where should the child be dropped off and picked up on the first day? Does school start at the usual time? Where will they keep their belongings? What are school rules about mobile phones? 

If the child has any such concerns, and you are uncertain yourself, seek out other parents or older children to offer reassurance.

2. Establish relationships with teachers.

Communication between parents and teachers can be key to a child’s happiness in school. Keep a list of school phone numbers and email addresses. Most schools prefer to deal with any problems at an early stage, rather than wait for a pupil’s difficulties to become entrenched.

3. Have regard for children’s mental wellbeing.

Talk to your child about school, their friends, teachers and any activities that are new to them. What they are looking forward to? Is there anything they’re not so sure about? Organising a ‘back to school’ shopping trip can help with the child’s motivation: new backpack, pens, pencils and lunch box can bring an element of positive anticipation.

4. Be aware of the child’s physical health.

Children are certain to be tired at the beginning of term, so try to re-establish school bedtime routines a few days before the start of term, along with other good habits, such as eating an adequate breakfast, because there won’t be the same snacking opportunities in school as at home.

5. Friendships.

If the child has changed classes or changed schools, try to maintain old friendships for as long as the child wants: arrange reunion playdates or catch-up zoom calls. Children feel more settled when they know they can stay in contact with old friends. 

Meet up with a few new classmates before the start of term, then the child will have other pupils to talk to during the first week. 

6. Ease from holiday to school gradually.

Children will be tired for the first few days of the new term, so allow them generous down time after school. Make sure familiar adults are around to be supportive and sympathetic. Plan at least one fun activity for the first week of school, perhaps a cinema trip at the weekend or a special day trip to look forward to.