Easing Back to School Transitions

by Diana Brummer, LCSW
​Owner, Good Mental Health LLC

With summer winding down, many parents and kids feel the tension of shifting from lazy, unstructured days to the more hectic pace of a new school year. But with a little planning and empathy, you can create a smoother, more positive transition for your family.


Start with routines: Easing your child back into a school schedule is about more than setting the alarm. Begin by gradually adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a week or two before school starts. This helps reset their internal clocks and ensures they’re rested and ready for those early mornings. Practice morning routines like getting dressed, having breakfast, and packing backpacks. Even a “dress rehearsal” or visiting the school campus beforehand can make those routines feel familiar on day one.


Create structure with flexibility: Kids thrive on routines, but too much rigidity can add stress. Use a family calendar or a visual schedule so everyone knows what to expect each day. Prepare a dedicated homework space with all the supplies they’ll need, and consider using checklists to help them remember important tasks or items to bring.


Support their emotions: Back-to-school brings excitement and nerves. Start conversations about what your child is looking forward to and what makes them anxious. Be available to listen—sometimes they just need reassurance that their feelings are normal. Books, drawings, or play can also help younger kids express what they’re feeling.


Reconnect socially: Arrange a few playdates or outings with classmates before school starts to rebuild social bonds. Attending back-to-school events or meeting new teachers ahead of time can lessen first-day jitters. Remind your child of past successes and challenges they’ve overcome so they head into the year with confidence.


Maintain healthy habits: Over the last weeks of summer, focus on balanced nutrition, regular meals, and plenty of outdoor activity. Starting each school day with a healthy breakfast can boost your child’s energy and focus.


Finally, remember that transitions aren’t always seamless—and that’s okay. Allow space for extra downtime in the first weeks. Keeping communication open and your approach flexible will reassure your child that you’re in this together, every step of the way.


By preparing early, showing empathy, and building excitement, you’re setting your kids up for a strong start—academically, emotionally, and socially.


Good Mental Health is a counseling and coaching practice based in St. Johns, Florida, offering individual, couples, and family counseling to adolescents and adults. Sessions are available face-to-face and online. We hope to provide the tools and skills necessary to heal past wounds, grow healthy relationships, and build stronger families. For more information, visit GoodMentalHealthLLC.com. ​