By Emily Witmier, LAC – Mental Health Clinician & Community Educator
As summer days wane and the new school year looms, preparing for this transition can ease the stress and set a positive tone for the months ahead. From setting up a new routine to addressing emotional needs, these tips will help ensure that both parents and children navigate this period with confidence and ease. Here’s a guide to make the back-to-school transition smoother and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
- Practice Waking Up Early: Waking up early can be challenging for anyone, but it can be especially tough for teens whose natural sleep cycles tend to shift toward later bedtimes and wake times. To alleviate the stress of adjusting to a new school schedule, begin practicing earlier bedtimes and wake times before school starts. Create a morning routine that excites your child, such as having breakfast together or taking a walk before the summer heat sets in. Gradually adjust wake times by starting with their current wake-up time and shifting it earlier each day to ease them into their school routine.
- Incorporate Positive Discussions About School: Younger children may feel anxious about returning to school or starting a new grade. Instead of simply asking what they are excited about, share your own enthusiasm for their upcoming experiences. For example, you might say, “I’m excited for you to enter the science fair this year; I can’t wait to see what you create!” Looking at photos from your own school days and reminiscing about your favorite memories can also help make the idea of returning to school more appealing and less intimidating.
- Acknowledge Children’s Feelings: It’s natural to want to reassure children or offer advice when they express worries about school. However, sometimes what they need most is simply to be heard. Validate their feelings by listening to their concerns without immediately jumping to solutions. Allowing them to express their fears can often be the first step in helping them feel more at ease.
- Carve Out Family Time: As the school year brings a busy schedule filled with homework, sports, and extracurricular activities, it’s important not to let family time fall by the wayside. Prioritize regular family activities such as dinners, movie nights, or board games. This dedicated time together helps strengthen family bonds and provides a comforting routine amidst the busyness of school life.
- Consult Professionals When Needed: If your child continues to struggle with school adjustment after a few weeks, it might be helpful to seek professional support. Consulting a counselor can be beneficial if your child experiences persistent anxiety. Also, if they are struggling academically, don’t hesitate to contact their teacher or school guidance counselor for extra support. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. To reduce any stigma, you might also discuss how famous individuals in various fields faced and overcame similar challenges. To learn more about the offerings of the JFCS Faye Manger Counseling Department – including child & teen therapy, play therapy, and family counseling, please visit jfcssnj.org/counseling or call us at (856) 424-1333. My colleagues and I are here to help!
By taking these steps, you can help ensure that the back-to-school transition is as smooth and positive as possible for your child.
Emily Witmier is a licensed associate counselor (LAC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC). She earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, and she is currently pursuing an EdD in Community Care and Counseling with a focus on Traumatology. With three years of middle school teaching experience, Emily brings a unique perspective to counseling, particularly with children, teens, and individuals in their twenties.
In her own words: “My approach emphasizes strengths and solution-focused methods, creating an authentic space for exploration and healing. I am passionate about integrating creative arts into therapy and harnessing the therapeutic benefits of art.”
