Back to school is a time for an array of emotions. From nervousness to excitement, to depths of despair, everybody has feelings surrounding the transition. Below are a few things that can help make the beginning of the school year go smoother while everybody is learning new routines, new information, and learning about new people. No pressure to do all of them! Do what works best for you and your family, knowing that the most important thing you can do is show up with love and support for your child as they embark on a new school year.

1. It is helpful for children to be able to know where they will be spending their time the next several months. If possible, visit the classroom ahead of time, or look at a picture of the classroom with your child to help alleviate some anxiety.
2. Meet the teacher ahead of time. If this isn’t possible, consider having a picture and text/email exchange.
3. Find out exciting/interesting things your child will get to participate in at school. It is a good idea to ask the teacher about 1-2 first day activities. Try to talk about these activities with your child prior to school starting to help build excitement.
4. Recess can be challenging for some kiddos. Going to the school playground can give your child an opportunity to get familiar with the space and get comfortable navigating the equipment.
5. If your child is riding the bus, know the number or picture of the bus and make sure your child knows what it is too. For extra confidence, clip a picture to their backpack, so they can reference it if needed.
6. Will your child go to before or after school care? If so, make sure they know these routines. Consider creating a visual for them. It’s a good idea to meet and talk with this teacher and visit the space as well.
7. It can be helpful to start your child on their school sleep/wake cycle about a week ahead of time.
8. Try to practice the morning routine prior to the first day of school.
9. Consider creating a visual schedule of the day to ease anxiety. If your child is seen by Occupational Therapist or Speech and Language Therapist, these professionals are a great resource to support with visuals!
10. If you pack your child’s lunch, try to pack at least 1 or 2 things you know they really like on their first few days. Eating in a cafeteria or even having a snack in a classroom can be overwhelming. If the child is familiar with the texture, shape, color, and size of the food they will be eating, it’s more likely they will eat it and get nutrition in and bellies filled.
11. Set yourself up for success- having premade and/or easy meals ready to go can be helpful in reducing at least one additional demand on you, the caregiver, that week.
12. Count on big emotions and challenging transitions! The transition back to school can be overwhelming for so many of our kiddos. The sensory experience alone, including new sights, sounds, and smells, can really add up! Keep this in mind and try to build in decompression time after school. Have a preferred snack and a downtime activity ready. Keep in mind that your child may not want to talk or do much as they unwind and recharge, especially those first few days.

As your family navigates the exciting, and often challenging, journey back to school, remember that a little preparation can go a long way in easing anxieties and building confidence. By taking the time to address potential worries, foster excitement, and establish clear routines, you’re setting your child — and yourself — up for a smoother transition. Embrace the unique emotions that come with this time of year, and know that with these strategies, you’re well-equipped to make the beginning of the school year a positive experience for everyone.

We’re Here for You This School Year!

At Pediatric Potentials, Inc., we’re more than just therapists, we’re your partners in helping your child thrive. If you have any concerns about your child’s development, behavior, communication, or school readiness, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make this a great school year for your child.

Want to check in before school starts? Contact us to schedule an Occupational or Speech Therapy evaluation today. We also offer free phone screenings to determine if your child could benefit from a full evaluation.

Phone: (407) 322-3962

Email: info@pediatricpotentials.com

This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice nor does it establish a therapist-patient relationship. The content provided should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care.