03 AUGUST 2026
The language we use to support children with the return to school is so important. In this article, Hana Whitty, our Senior Speech and Language Therapist, shares practical strategies and advice to help make the transition smoother.
4 minute read
Returning to school after the holidays can bring a mix of excitement and uncertainty for many children and young people. The language we use and the way we prepare them can make a real difference in helping them feel confident and secure. Here are three simple strategies to support a smooth and positive transition back to school.
Speak positively about school
The conversations we have about school can have a significant impact on how children feel about returning.
Try to focus on the aspects of school they enjoy, such as:
Seeing friends and familiar adults.
Reconnecting with teachers.
Taking part in favourite lessons or activities.
Returning to routines that help them feel settled.
By highlighting the positive experiences they can look forward to, we help build anticipation rather than anxiety. Keeping conversations optimistic and reassuring can support children in approaching the new term with greater confidence.
Make the transition visual
Many children benefit from having information presented in a clear and concrete way. Visual supports can make the return to school feel more predictable and manageable. You could:
Use a calendar to count down the days until school starts, crossing off each day together. Look through any transition materials provided by school, such as photographs of classrooms, staff or new learning environments.
Talk through what the first day might look like, who they will see and what activities they may enjoy.
Create or read social stories to prepare for situations they may be feeling worried about.
Visual supports help children understand what to expect, reducing uncertainty and making the transition feel less overwhelming.
Keep communication open with school
A strong partnership between home and school is one of the best ways to support a successful transition. If there is anything that may affect your child's day, let school staff know. This could include:
A poor night's sleep.
Feelings of worry or anxiety.
Changes at home.
Positive experiences they are excited to share.
It's also helpful to involve your child in these conversations. Ask them what they would like their teacher to know. For example, you might say:
"Shall we tell Mr Jones about the fun you've had this summer?" Or "Would you like me to let your teacher know that you're feeling a little worried about going back?"
Giving children a voice in what is shared can help them feel understood and reassured, while enabling school staff to provide the right support from the very first day.
A positive start
Returning to school is a significant transition, but small changes in how we talk, prepare and communicate can make a big difference. By speaking positively, using visual supports and working closely with school staff, we can help children feel more confident, reduce anxiety and set them up for a successful start to the new term.