The first few weeks of a new school year can be a lot.
Even children who were excited about going back can suddenly become clingy, tearful or just a little different once the school routine starts again.
It's completely understandable, but that doesn't make it any easier to watch as a parent.
There are some simple things you can do at home to help make the transition feel a little easier.
Build a predictable morning routine
Mornings set the tone for the day.
When everyone is rushing around trying to remember what needs to happen next, things can quickly become stressful.
Having a familiar morning routine gives your child something they can recognise and follow.
A visual routine can be particularly helpful. Instead of you constantly telling them what to do next, they can see the steps for themselves.
Get dressed.
Have breakfast.
Brush teeth.
Get shoes on.
Pack their bag.
Once they've finished a task, they can close the flap on their routine planner and see what's still left to do.
My Kids Routine Planner is designed for children aged 3+ and includes illustrated task cards for morning and evening routines.
Start the day with something positive
Before heading out the door, take a minute to do something positive together.
One simple idea is to let your child choose an affirmation card for the day.
"I am brave."
"I am kind."
"I can do hard things."
It doesn't need to become a big ritual. You can simply read the card together and have a quick chat about it.
Sometimes having a few positive words to start the day can give children something to think about when they're facing something that feels difficult.
My Kids Affirmation Cards are designed for children aged 2+ and can easily become part of a morning routine.
Give them time to talk after school
Not every child wants to answer "How was school?" the second they walk through the door.
Sometimes they need a little time to switch off and settle back at home.
You might find they talk more while having dinner, in the bath or at bedtime. Follow their lead rather than trying to get everything out of them straight away.
For children who find it difficult to put their feelings into words, a journal can also help.
It doesn't need to be a diary where they have to write about their entire day. A simple prompt, a drawing or a few words can be enough.
Sometimes the prompt can be the start of a little conversation between you and your child. You can talk about it together and then write down their answer.
My Kids Journal has simple prompts and space for children to write or draw, making it suitable for younger children too.
Notice the small wins
Starting or going back to school can involve lots of little moments that take courage.
Walking into the classroom.
Talking to someone new.
Trying something they haven't done before.
Getting through a day that felt difficult.
Try to notice those moments and let your child know that you saw them.
It doesn't always have to be a huge celebration. Sometimes a simple "I noticed you did that even though you were nervous" can mean a lot.
Give them time to settle
Every child is different, and some will settle into a new school routine more quickly than others.
If your child is finding things difficult, try not to put pressure on yourself or them to have everything figured out immediately.
Keep things predictable at home, give them opportunities to talk and let them know that you're there.
And if you're concerned about how they're coping, don't be afraid to speak to their teacher. They can give you a better picture of how things are going during the school day.
A little reminder for parents
If your child is finding the start of school difficult, remember that you don't have to fix everything at once.
Sometimes it's the little things that help most. A predictable morning, a few positive words before they leave and a chance to talk about their day afterwards.
You don't need to have all the answers. Just being there, listening and reminding them that they're doing a good job can mean a lot.
