August 13, 2025
Going back to school after summer break can be a tough adjustment, especially for younger children or those starting at a new school. Changes in routine, unfamiliar environments, and first-day jitters can affect both kids and parents.
These tips can help make the transition smoother for everyone:
If your child spent the summer going to bed late and sleeping in, it's important to begin adjusting their sleep schedule in advance. To do that, move their bed and wake-up times up by about 15 minutes every few days, starting one or two weeks before they return to school. This gradual change can help their internal clock get back on track.
If your child’s meal schedule has been different during the summer months, begin aligning meals with a typical school day schedule. Find out when lunch is served and get your child used to eating at that time before the first day arrives.
During the school year, many families need to follow a tighter schedule than they do during the summer. Creating a family calendar can help keep track of daily routines, after-school activities, and assignment deadlines.
Establishing a consistent morning routine can also reduce stress and help kids feel more confident. For younger children, consider creating a visual checklist of morning tasks like brushing teeth, getting dressed, and packing their backpack. This can serve as a helpful guide until the routine becomes second nature.
To keep your child’s morning routine from becoming overwhelming, move some tasks to the night before school days. For example, pick the next day's outfit and pack their lunch in the evening. This provides everyone with a more relaxed start to the day and reduces the chance of forgetting something.
Set a dedicated time and place for homework as well. Right after school is ideal, but if your child participates in extracurricular activities, find a time that works. Choose a quiet spot away from distractions like toys, pets, or TV.
If your child is attending a new school or transitioning to a different part of the building, help them get comfortable with their surroundings. If possible, visit the school with them ahead of time, walk the halls, and familiarize them with important areas like their classroom, drop-off area, or bus stop.
You should also introduce yourself to your child’s teacher, even if only through a brief email. Share anything that might help them understand your child's personality, needs, or routines. Also, buy their school supplies early to avoid the stress of last-minute shopping!
If your young child has some school friends they haven’t seen in a while, schedule a play date with them.
Before school begins, schedule a physical exam to ensure your child is healthy and prepared for the year ahead. In Pennsylvania, physical exams are required at the start of elementary school, middle school, and high school, and they are also necessary for students participating in sports. This appointment is a good opportunity to address any health concerns. Vaccinations are required for all students, so make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date before the first day of school.
Talk to your child about how they’re feeling as the school year approaches. Ask about their hopes and concerns, and let them know it’s completely normal to feel nervous. Offer encouragement and remind them of the parts of school they enjoy, whether that’s a favorite subject or an extracurricular activity.
Returning to school can feel overwhelming, but a little planning goes a long way. With a few simple adjustments to your child’s routine and environment ahead of time, you can help them start the school year with confidence!
