For some kids, the first day of school can't come soon enough. They’re excited to see friends, meet their new teacher, and get back to a familiar routine. For others, the countdown to school brings a different feeling. Maybe it's a stomachache the night before. A child who suddenly doesn't want to talk about school. A teenager who seems unusually irritable or spends more time alone. Sometimes, it's a little bit of everything.
Going back to school is a big transition. Even children who normally handle change well can feel nervous, overwhelmed, or out of sorts as summer comes to an end. That’s why it’s important to keep in touch with how your child is doing and watch out for any unusual issues or patterns that may show up.
A New School Year Means a Lot of Changes
Think about how much changes in just a few weeks. Bedtimes shift. Activities and schedules fill up again. There are new teachers, new classrooms, and new expectations. Older children and teens may also be dealing with academic pressure, sports, friendships, and the challenges that come with growing up.
A little nervousness is normal. In fact, some stress can help children prepare for something new. But it’s important to pay attention when those feelings seem to be getting in the way of everyday life.
What Parents Should Watch For
Every child handles stress differently, so there isn't one set of signs that means a child is struggling. You know your child better than anyone, and changes from their usual behavior may be worth noticing. Some things to watch for include:
Frequent headaches or stomachaches without an obvious cause
Trouble falling asleep or sleeping much more than usual
Changes in appetite
Irritability, anger, or frequent mood changes
Pulling away from family or friends
Losing interest in activities they normally enjoy
Constant worry about school or other everyday situations
Avoiding school, activities, or social situations
One rough morning doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong. But when changes persist, become more intense or start interfering with school, friendships or family life, it may be time to check in.
Start With a Conversation
You don't need to have all the answers before talking with your child. Sometimes the best place to start is simply, "How are you feeling about going back to school?"
If that question gets you a one-word answer, don't give up. Try talking while you're driving somewhere, taking a walk, or doing something together. The Child Mind Institute offers some great conversation starters if you need some. Some kids, especially teens, may find it easier to open up when they don't feel like they're sitting across from you for a formal conversation.
When they do talk, listen before trying to fix the problem. A child who says, "I don't want to go to school because nobody likes me," may not need an immediate solution. They may just need to know that you heard them.
Build Healthy Routines (Before You Need Them!)
Mental wellness isn't just about what happens when a child is having a difficult day. Everyday routines can provide a sense of stability, too.
As school approaches, gradually move bedtime and wake-up times closer to the school schedule. Make time for regular meals, physical activity, and enough sleep. Try not to overschedule every afternoon and evening. Children need downtime, too.
It can also help to establish small routines that give kids something to count on. Maybe it's eating breakfast together, talking about the day during dinner or spending a few minutes together before bed. These things may seem ordinary, but ordinary can be comforting.
Don't Wait for a Crisis
Parents sometimes hesitate to ask for help because they worry they're overreacting. They may tell themselves that their child will grow out of it or that someone else has bigger problems. You don't have to wait until a situation becomes a crisis to reach out.
Early support can help children and families understand what's happening and develop ways to handle challenges before they become more difficult. Asking for help isn't a sign that you've failed as a parent, and it doesn't mean something is seriously wrong with your child. Sometimes, it simply means you recognized that your family could use some extra support.
Elevate Is Here for Families
At Elevate, we understand that supporting children and teens means supporting their families, too. Prevention and early intervention can make a meaningful difference, especially when young people are given support before a challenge grows into something bigger.
The school year will bring good days, hard days, and everything in between. Your child doesn't have to handle all of it perfectly, and neither do you. Pay attention, keep the conversation open, and learn to create routines that provide stability. And if you notice your child is struggling, be sure to reach out sooner rather than later.
Elevate offers programs and services designed to help children, teens, and families build healthy coping skills, strengthen relationships and navigate challenges related to substance use and mental health. Learn more about our prevention, intervention, and family support programs at www.elevateyou.org.
