By Sunny Volano, LPC, CPCS Claytoncounselingllc.com
The back-to-school blues are real, for kids and parents. As summer winds down, families often experience a wave of mixed emotions. Children may feel nervous about new teachers and classrooms, while parents feel the bittersweet shift from lazy summer days to packed lunchboxes and early mornings.
At Clayton Counseling, we know these transitions can stir up a range of feelings, from excitement to anxiety. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or entering middle school, the good news is: you can take small, meaningful steps to ease the adjustment.
Here are five counselor-recommended strategies to make the transition back to school smoother for everyone involved:
1. Plan a Special One-on-One Day
Before the school year begins—or the first weekend after—spend intentional time with your child. Whether it’s a simple park picnic, a movie, or a trip to the ice cream shop, a parent-child day helps reinforce connection and gives them something joyful to hold onto as they begin a new chapter.
2. Turn “Meet the Teacher” Day Into an Event
Meeting a new teacher can feel intimidating. Help your child feel more confident by walking the school halls together, reconnecting with old friends, and ending the day with a treat like donuts or ice cream. Framing the day as a celebration helps reduce anxiety and build excitement.
3. Talk About the Positives (Even If You’re Nervous Too)
Kids often mirror their caregivers’ emotions. Even if you’re feeling a little anxious yourself, try to focus your conversations on the positives. Talk about what they might love—art class, story time, recess, new friends—and remind them of all the ways they’ve grown since last year.
4. Be Present for Pick-Up and Drop-Off
If your child usually takes the bus, consider switching to drop-off and pick-up for the first few days. These brief but powerful moments help children feel safe, supported, and seen. They also create emotional touchpoints where you can check in and offer reassurance.
5. Focus on High-Touch Moments
Transitional stress is most manageable when we focus on connection over correction. Make time for key daily moments—waking up, bedtime, after-school check-ins. Even five minutes of undivided attention can do wonders for a child who’s feeling overwhelmed or unsure.
Need Extra Support?
At Clayton Counseling, we specialize in helping children and families manage back-to-school anxiety, emotional regulation, and life transitions. If your child is showing signs of distress or you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself, you’re not alone.
**Schedule a free consultation today to see how our team can support your family.
Back-to-school transitions don’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and a lot of love, this season can be a chance for reconnection, resilience, and growth—for both you and your child.
Good luck I am right there with you!
Sunny
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