Getting your child ready for a new school term

Starting school or going back after a break can feel difficult for children and young people. As a parent or carer, you can help them prepare.

Talking about returning to school with your child can help understand how they feel.

• Even if your child doesn’t seem too worried, it’s important to ask how they feel about returning to school.
• If they are worried, ask them what they feel anxious about. It’s easier for you to support them if they have a particular concern.
• Reassure them it’s OK to have these worries and praise them for sharing them with you.

Worries, anxious thoughts or anxiety can happen if your child feels out of control. It helps to find things they can control and start from there.

Ask what they will miss from being at home. Are they worried they won’t get to spend as much time with you? Reassure them and continue to make time for this once school goes back. You can also read our advice on separation anxiety. 

Talk to the teacher about any concerns so they’re better prepared to support your child.

If you’re worried about your child going to school, make sure you are taking care of your own mental health.

Read our advice on parental burnout.

You can also talk to someone in your support network. They may be having the same concerns.

Be positive when dropping off your child, even if you’re not feeling your best. If you can, hide any worries as your child will pick up on these.

Make sure your child is getting enough sleep. Read our advice on getting your child back into a sleep routine before they go back to school.  

Plan for your new morning routine together, and try this in the run up to school starting.

• Make sure there’s time for breakfast, getting dressed and getting out the door. Can you make the school routine more enjoyable? For example, try making a morning playlist.
• Pack school bags in advance. It’s one less thing to think about on the day.
• Plan your journey. You can practise this with your child before the first day. Children who have to get to school by themselves might be particularly nervous.

Anxious feelings can be overwhelming or even cause panic attacks. Suggest your child make a list of feel good activities to do when they’re having a bad day.

They could also make a soothing box to fill with items they like the look, smell, touch or taste of.

Your child will also have things to look forward to. These might include:

• Seeing their friends again.
• Having renewed independence (taking themselves to and from school).
• Their favourite subject and/or teacher.
• Getting back into a routine.

If your children have not have seen their friends during the break, it can help to arrange a meet up beforehand.

If your child is still very anxious, read our advice for when your child is refusing to go to school.