The return to school can be a time of excitement, change, and—for many children and teens—heightened stress and anxiety.
Whether your child is starting kindergarten, entering middle school, adjusting to a new school, or facing the pressures of high school, the back-to-school transition often brings emotional and behavioral challenges. And as a parent, it can be hard to know when your child just needs time—or when they may need additional support.
Understanding the common challenges kids face and knowing how to support them—along with the help of a trained child or teen therapist—can make the school year a much smoother, healthier experience for the whole family.
Common Back-to-School Challenges for Children and Teens
Every child is different, but some school-related difficulties are common across age groups. Knowing what to watch for can help you respond with empathy, structure, and support.
- Back-to-School Anxiety
- Fear of being away from home (especially in younger children)
- Worry about academics, peer pressure, or bullying
- Physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or fatigue
- Social Stress
- Navigating new social groups or friendships
- Fear of judgment or exclusion
- Difficulty with peer communication or conflict
- Academic Pressure
- Worries about grades, tests, or performance
- Perfectionism or fear of failure
- Lack of motivation or procrastination (especially in teens)
- Changes in Routine
- Difficulty waking up early after summer break
- Resistance to structured schedules
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Separation Anxiety or School Refusal
- Crying, clinging, or meltdowns before school
- Avoidance behaviors or repeated physical complaints
- Refusing to go to school altogether
Tips & Tricks for Parents to Support the Back-to-School Transition
A little preparation and intentional support can go a long way in helping your child or teen adjust emotionally and mentally.
- Start the Routine Early
Begin reintroducing school-time bedtimes, wake-up times, and morning rituals at least a week before school starts to ease the transition.
- Talk Openly About Feelings
Ask open-ended questions:
- “How are you feeling about going back to school?”
- “What are you excited or nervous about?”
Normalize their fears, and avoid dismissing them.
- Create Predictability
Help your child feel grounded by establishing consistent routines for mornings, meals, homework, and bedtime. Predictability eases anxiety.
- Practice Problem-Solving Together
If your child is worried about something specific (e.g., lunch seating, locker combinations, test-taking), brainstorm solutions together.
- Encourage Social Connection
Set up playdates or meetups before school begins to help kids reconnect with peers. For teens, respect their independence while offering gentle encouragement.
- Focus on Strengths, Not Just Stress
Remind your child of what they’re good at—whether it’s making friends, problem-solving, or adapting to change. Help them approach the year with confidence.
- Validate, Don’t Minimize
Instead of saying, “You’ll be fine,” try, “I can see this is really tough for you—and I’m here to help.”
When to Consider Therapy for Your Child or Teen
Sometimes, emotional and behavioral challenges go beyond what typical parenting strategies can resolve. Therapy with a licensed child or adolescent therapist can provide invaluable support.
Signs your child may benefit from therapy:
- Ongoing or severe school refusal
- Panic attacks, nightmares, or intense anxiety
- Aggressive or withdrawn behavior
- Drop in grades or motivation
- Social isolation or bullying
- Ongoing sleep or appetite issues
- Self-harm thoughts or behavior (in teens especially)
How therapy helps:
- Teaches coping skills for anxiety, stress, and social issues
- Improves emotional regulation and resilience
- Provides a safe space to talk about worries, fears, or identity struggles
- Enhances communication between parents and children
- Builds confidence and self-esteem for a successful school year
A therapist can also work closely with families to develop individualized strategies that support both your child’s emotional health and academic success.
Final Thoughts
The back-to-school season can be a mixed bag of emotions—for both kids and parents. And that’s okay.
Whether your child is dreading the first day or facing social or academic stress, your support, patience, and presence matter more than you know. And if things feel heavier than usual, there’s no shame in reaching out for professional help.
Support Your Child’s Mental Health This School Year
Therapy with a child or teen therapist can make all the difference in helping your child manage back-to-school stress and thrive emotionally and academically. In therapy, kids can build emotional resilience and confidence, navigate school anxiety and social stress, and create a smoother, more successful school transition for the whole family
Find a child or teen therapist at Rosecrans & Associates and schedule a consultation today at 847-461-8414.
You’re not alone—and neither is your child. Support is here when you need it.