08/10/2026
Back-to-School Reminder for Parents: It's Okay to Have Mixed Feelings!
It's okay if your child is excited about school one day and struggling the next.
Transitions can be difficult for many children—even when it's a transition they've experienced before. A new teacher, classroom, schedule, homework expectations, friendships, or simply getting back into a routine can feel overwhelming.
Sometimes children don't have the words to say, "I'm feeling anxious about this change." Instead, you may see:
• 😢 More crying or irritability
• 😴 Trouble sleeping
• 🤢 Stomachaches or headaches
• 🚗 Resistance to going to school
• 😡 More meltdowns or arguing
• 🧸 Increased clinginess
• 🧠 Worrying about making mistakes or fitting in
What can parents do?
1. Create a predictable routine.
Try to keep wake-up, meals, homework, bedtime, and morning routines consistent. Predictability can help children feel more secure.
2. Talk about school without pressure.
Instead of repeatedly asking, "Are you nervous about school?" try:
"What's something you're looking forward to?"
"What's something that feels a little hard?"
3. Validate before trying to fix.
Try saying:
"I can see that this feels really hard. It's okay to feel nervous. We'll figure it out together."
4. Practice the transition.
Pack the backpack together, choose clothes the night before, visit the school if possible, or practice the morning routine.
5. Celebrate small victories.
Maybe your child walked into school independently, talked to a new classmate, or made it through a difficult morning. Those small steps matter!
6. Give extra connection.
Sometimes children need more reassurance and one-on-one time during periods of change. Even 10–15 minutes of uninterrupted time together can make a difference.
Most importantly, remember:
A difficult day doesn't mean your child is failing. It means they're learning how to manage something difficult.
With consistency, patience, connection, and support, children can develop confidence and learn that they are capable of handling change.
If your child's anxiety, emotional outbursts, school refusal, or difficulty adjusting begins to interfere with daily life, counseling can provide additional support.
At LRowe LPC, I provide counseling for children and adolescents ages 3–17, helping young people navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, behavioral challenges, school concerns, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions.
Your child doesn't have to navigate the hard stuff alone.
If you're wondering whether counseling might be helpful for your child, reach out to LRowe LPC to learn more about services and scheduling.
Helping Children Navigate Life's Challenges.