Back to School: How to Support Children Through Mixed Emotions
📚 In just one week, school will be back in session—and with it, a mix of emotions may appear in children. Some may be bubbling with excitement, others a little nervous, and you might even hear statements like, “I don’t want to go to school yet!” These reactions are completely normal, especially after long summer breaks. Whether you are a parent or a teacher, it’s important to recognize, validate, and accept these feelings to make the transition smoother and less stressful for children.
💬 Start by asking children how they feel.
Take a few minutes to really listen to what they have to say. If they express worry or fear, avoid brushing it off with phrases like, “There’s nothing to worry about.” Instead, ask them to share the specific things that concern them and explore ways to tackle those worries together. Sometimes, simply talking about feelings and having someone acknowledge them can reduce anxiety significantly.
Transitions—like moving from one grade to another (for example, from 4th to 5th grade, or from primary to secondary school)—often bring extra stress. Changes in the classroom environment, new expectations, and increased responsibilities can feel overwhelming. In these situations, it helps to talk about what children can expect, normalize their feelings, and remind them that everyone needs time to adjust. Teachers are aware of this too and often provide support to help students navigate these transitions.
🌟 Encourage children to remember positive experiences.
Reflecting on past successes, like joining a new activity or making new friends, can boost confidence and reduce anxiety. Reminding children that they have overcome challenges before can help them feel more capable of facing new ones.
🧘♀️ Introduce calming strategies.
Teach children tools to manage their emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, talking with a friend, making a small plan for the day, or creating to-do lists. Having strategies in place can help children feel more in control and resilient, and it empowers them to handle stressful situations independently.
💡 Normalize mixed feelings.
Remind children that it’s okay to feel both excitement and a little nervousness at the same time. Even adults experience these emotions when starting something new. Let children know that these feelings are normal and that you are there to support them every step of the way.
Returning to school can be a big transition, but with patience, understanding, and supportive guidance, children can enter the new school year with confidence and calm. By listening, validating feelings, and offering practical strategies, both parents and teachers can help children feel safe, prepared, and ready to embrace the year ahead.
Above all, be present, listen, and reassure children that it’s perfectly normal to feel both excitement and a little nervousness. With understanding, preparation, and support, the return to school can feel smoother for everyone.