14 AUGUST 2026
The summer holidays are coming to an end, and it’s almost time for your child to return to school. While the new school year can bring excitement, it’s also common for children and young people to feel nervous, worried or unsettled about going back. In this article, we share practical tips to help parents and carers recognise these feelings, provide reassurance and support their child as they prepare for the new school year.
4 minute read
Understanding emotions and nerves
Feeling nervous about returning to school is completely normal. Your child may feel excited about seeing friends and getting back into familiar routines, while also feeling worried about what the new school year might bring. These feelings can be difficult for children to express, so try to create opportunities for them to talk openly without feeling pressured. Reassure your child that it’s okay to feel nervous and that they don’t have to manage these feelings alone.
Keep communication open
Encourage your child to talk about any worries they have about returning to school. This might be about friendships, lessons, teachers, changes to routine or simply getting used to being back in a busy environment. Listen without immediately trying to solve the problem. Sometimes knowing that a trusted adult understands can make a big difference. If appropriate, you can also help your child identify a trusted teacher or member of school staff they can talk to.
Prepare in advance
A little preparation can make the return to school feel more manageable. Involve your child in getting school supplies ready, choosing what they will wear and planning their morning routine. You could also gradually reintroduce school-day routines during the final weeks of the holidays, such as earlier bedtimes and wake-up times. Having familiar routines in place can give your child a greater sense of predictability and control.
Break things down into small steps
If your child is feeling overwhelmed by the thought of a whole new school year, help them focus on what is happening immediately in front of them. Rather than thinking about the entire term, talk about the first day or first week. You could help your child identify one or two manageable goals, such as finding a particular classroom, speaking to a friend at break time or asking a teacher for help when they need it. Small successes can help build confidence.
Practise relaxation techniques
If your child becomes anxious, simple relaxation techniques can help them manage those feelings. You could practise slow breathing together, try a short mindfulness activity or encourage some gentle movement or exercise. It can be useful to practise these techniques when your child is calm, so they become familiar strategies they can use when they feel worried.
Establish routines and consistency
Children often benefit from having clear, predictable routines, particularly when they are experiencing change. Agree a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, allow plenty of time in the morning and build in time for meals, homework, relaxation and enjoyable activities. A calm and predictable routine can make the transition from the holidays back to school feel less daunting.
Help them focus on the positives
Talk to your child about the things they are looking forward to, whether that’s seeing friends, taking part in activities, returning to a favourite lesson or learning something new. Try to keep conversations balanced. You don’t need to dismiss their worries in order to focus on the positives. Acknowledging what feels difficult while also reminding them of what they enjoy can help them approach the new school year with greater confidence.
Know when to ask for help
Some nervousness is expected, but if your child’s worries are persistent, becoming more intense or significantly affecting their sleep, eating, daily activities or ability to attend school, it may be time to seek additional support. Speak to your child’s school about any concerns and find out what support is available. Teachers, pastoral staff, SENCOs and other professionals may be able to help you understand what your child is experiencing and put appropriate support in place.
Be patient and reassuring
Try to remember that every child responds to change differently. Your child may need more reassurance, time or practical support than you expect. Praise their efforts rather than focusing only on outcomes, and remind them that it’s okay to have difficult days. A calm, supportive approach from the adults around them can help your child feel safe, understood and more confident about returning to school. Returning to school can bring a mixture of excitement, uncertainty and worry. By listening to your child, preparing together, establishing supportive routines and knowing when to seek additional help, you can make the transition back to school feel more manageable for the whole family.
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