Returning to school after a break, like spring break, can be challenging for many children. The transition back to routines can trigger feelings of anxiety, stress, and difficulty re-engaging in school activities. Whether your child struggles with transitions, social interactions, or just the shift in routine, there are strategies you can use to support them as they ease back into their school routine.

Understanding the Challenges

After a break, children may feel overwhelmed as they switch back into structured routines. For some, the break provides a temporary relief from the demands of school. Returning can feel like an abrupt shift. Children with anxiety, ADHD, or those who are particularly sensitive to changes may experience increased stress during this time. Understanding these feelings and offering support can help ease the transition.

Tips for Supporting Your Child’s Return to School

Prepare Ahead of Time
A day or two before school starts, begin to transition back to the routine. Adjust bedtimes, mealtimes, and start re-establishing the morning routine. It’s helpful to give your child a gentle reminder about what to expect when they return to school, whether it’s schoolwork, activities, or meeting friends.
Example: “Tomorrow we’ll get back into our usual school routine. We’ll wake up a little earlier to get ready, and then you’ll see your friends and get back into learning.”

Acknowledge Their Feelings
Returning to school after a break can feel overwhelming, so it’s important to acknowledge and validate your child’s emotions. Let them know that it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure about the transition. Reassure them that these feelings are normal and that they will adjust.
Example: “It’s okay to feel a bit nervous about going back to school. A lot of kids feel the same way after a break, and soon enough, you’ll feel more comfortable again.”

Create a Calm Morning Routine
A calm, structured morning routine can help set the tone for the day and ease your child’s anxiety. Try to avoid rushing or adding stress by getting up early enough for everything to be done calmly. If possible, have a special morning ritual, such as listening to calming music, sharing a positive affirmation, or having a quiet breakfast together.

Use Visual Schedules or Checklists
Children, especially those who have difficulty with transitions, may benefit from visual cues to help them understand the steps involved in getting ready for school and what to expect during the day. A simple checklist for morning tasks or a visual schedule showing the day’s events can reduce anxiety and help them feel more prepared.

Encourage Open Communication
After school, take time to check in with your child about their day. Ask open-ended questions to encourage them to talk about how they felt during the day. If they had a difficult time, validate their feelings and offer comfort. Let them know they can always come to you with their concerns, big or small.
Example: “How was your first day back? Was there anything that felt hard or different?”

Provide Comforting Reminders
Some children feel anxious about returning to school after a break because they are unsure about what to expect socially or academically. Remind them of the positive aspects of school, such as seeing friends, engaging in fun activities, or pursuing interests. If they are anxious about returning to a challenging subject, remind them of their strengths and successes in the past.
Example: “Remember how much you loved art class last term, and how well you did in math! You’ll be great again this time.”

Set Realistic Expectations
Understand that your child may need time to readjust. They might experience a little “rust” in the first few days back, and that’s okay. It’s important to be patient and provide reassurance during this time of adjustment. Celebrate small victories, like getting through the first day or completing a task they were unsure about.

Offer Physical Comfort
Physical touch can provide a sense of security and calm, especially for younger children. Hugging your child, holding their hand, or giving them a reassuring pat on the back can help reduce anxiety and make the return to school feel a little less intimidating.

Stay Positive and Patient
Transitions take time, and the first few days may not go perfectly. Your child may experience a mix of emotions, from excitement to anxiety, and that’s normal. Be patient and remind them that it’s okay to have a range of feelings during times of change. Your positive attitude and support will help them feel more confident as they navigate the return to school.

Seek Professional Support if Needed
If your child struggles significantly with anxiety or school-related stress, it may be helpful to seek professional support. A counselor, therapist, or school psychologist can provide strategies to manage anxiety and help your child develop coping skills for navigating transitions.

Next Steps

If your child struggles with transitions, anxiety, or school-related stress, it can be helpful to reach out for support. At Willow and Sage Counselling, I offer a range of services designed to help children and families navigate these challenges. Through one-on-one sessions and tailored strategies, we can work together to support your child’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.

If you are unsure about what steps to take or need guidance on how to help your child adjust after a break, I encourage you to reach out for a consultation. Whether in person at our Surrey or Burnaby locations or online, I am here to support you and your child through this process.

Remember, each child is unique, and with patience, understanding, and a little extra support, your child can successfully navigate the return to school.

For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our website: Willow and Sage Counselling.