As summer winds down and the school year approaches, many families experience a mix of excitement and anxiety. While back-to-school season often brings the promise of new beginnings, it can also trigger emotional challenges, especially for children.

At Talking Works, we understand that these transitions can deeply impact your child’s mental and emotional well-being. Whether your child is starting kindergarten, changing schools, entering middle or high school, or simply returning after a long break, the shift can be overwhelming.

Why Transitions Can Be Hard on Kids

Children thrive on routine and predictability. A new school year brings a series of changes: waking up earlier, new teachers, unfamiliar classmates, academic pressures, and different social dynamics. For some children, especially those with anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or past trauma, these changes can be particularly difficult.

Common signs your child may be struggling:

• Increased irritability or mood swings

• Difficulty sleeping or changes in appetite

• Complaints of stomachaches or headaches (often stress-related)

• Withdrawal from activities they normally enjoy

• Refusal to go to school or strong resistance at morning drop-off

Emotional Impact: More Than Just “First-Day Jitters”

It’s normal for kids to feel a bit nervous before school starts, but persistent anxiety or behavioral shifts may indicate something deeper. Emotional distress during transitions can affect:

• Self-esteem: Worrying about fitting in, keeping up academically, or being accepted

• Concentration: Anxiety can impair focus and learning

• Relationships: Social stress may lead to isolation or conflict with peers

• Resilience: Unmanaged transitions can chip away at a child’s coping skills

How Parents Can Help

Supporting your child through a back-to-school transition starts with empathy and preparation.

1. Validate Their Feelings
Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous, sad, or unsure. Avoid saying “You’ll be fine!” and instead try, “It makes sense you’re feeling that way—starting something new can be hard.”

2. Create Routines Early
Ease into school-year schedules a week or two ahead of time. Gradually adjusting bedtime, wake-up time, and meal times can help reduce first-week chaos.

3. Visit the School (If Possible)
Walking through the building, seeing the classroom, or meeting the teacher can lower anxiety for younger children or those with social stress.

4. Encourage Open Communication
Make space for regular check-ins. Questions like “What was the best part of your day?” or “Was anything hard today?” invite kids to share more than just one-word answers.

5. Manage Your Own Anxiety
Kids are sensitive to adult emotions. If you’re feeling anxious about the transition, try to model calm and confidence for your child.

When to Seek Professional Support

If your child’s distress lasts beyond the first few weeks of school or begins interfering with daily life, it may be time to seek help. Therapy can offer children a safe space to explore their feelings, develop coping skills, and build confidence.

At Talking Works, we specialize in working with families through times of transition. Whether your child is struggling with school anxiety, behavioural challenges, or adjusting to change, our compassionate therapists are here to help you as parents support their growth and well-being.