Helping Your Child Adjust to Back-to-School Season (Especially Kindergarten!)
As summer winds down, families everywhere are preparing for the return of early alarms, packed lunches, and school routines. Whether your child is returning to school or starting kindergarten for the very first time, this transition can bring a mix of excitement, nerves, and growing pains for both children and parents alike.
In 2025, technology is playing a bigger role than ever before and school environments continue to evolve. However, it is so important to focus on the emotional and social aspects of getting back into the classroom too.
Here’s how you can help your children adjust smoothly and confidently to ensure success in the classroom this school year!
1. Start the Routine Early
Children thrive on routine. Start shifting bedtimes and wake-up times at least a week or two before school begins. Ease into school-friendly habits like regular mealtimes, screen-free evenings, and consistent bedtime rituals. This gives their bodies and minds time to adjust so that the first day of school doesn’t feel like such a shock.
2. Talk About What to Expect
For kindergarteners or children entering a new school, the unknown can feel intimidating. Talk with your child about what their day might look like such as getting to school, meeting the teacher, circle time, play, lunch, and quiet time. Read books about going to school, or watch short videos that show a typical school day. Normalize feelings of nervousness, and let them know it's okay to feel unsure.
If possible, visit the school before the first day. Most schools have summer open house days where children can visit their classroom, walk around the school, meet their classmates and meet the teacher. This simple event can eliminate many feelings of nervousness and anxiety around the first day of school.
3. Build Excitement, Not Pressure
Help your child look forward to school by involving them in back-to-school preparations. Let them choose their backpack, lunchbox, or first-day outfit. Keep the conversation positive and light: focus on new friends, fun activities, and all the fun they will have in school; stay away from discussions on performance or behavior expectations.
4. Practice Independence
Kindergarten often involves doing things without direct help from a parent—like opening snack containers, washing hands, using the bathroom and putting on a jacket. In the weeks leading up to school, encourage your child to practice these small tasks independently. It builds confidence and helps them feel capable when they’re on their own in the classroom.
5. Create a Calm Goodbye Ritual
The first few days may come with separation anxiety. Establish a quick, reassuring goodbye routine like a special hug, a phrase which gives timing of return ("See you after story time!"), or a handshake. Keep goodbyes calm and brief. Assure your child you will see them after school or provide direct reassurance: I’ll pick you up at the bus stop/See you in the car line! Children often settle quickly once they know when they will see the parent again and the parent is out of sight.
6. Stay in the Loop and Stay Positive
Keep communication open with teachers and caregivers, especially in the early weeks. If your child is having a hard time adjusting, don’t panic. It’s normal, and most kids settle in within a few weeks. Be a steady source of reassurance, listen when they talk about their day, and celebrate small wins like making a new friend or being brave at drop-off.
7. Manage Your Own Emotions Too
If you're emotional about your child starting school, especially kindergarten, that’s okay! It's a big milestone. Just be mindful not to project your anxiety or sadness onto them. Show them you believe they’re ready, and that you trust the school environment to be a safe, happy place.
Every child adjusts at their own pace. Some will run through the classroom door with excitement, while others will need more time and support. Either way, your encouragement, patience, and presence make all the difference.
Here’s to a great 2025-2026 school year, full of growth, laughter, and new adventures!