How to Help Your Child Prepare for the New School Year

Maria Mojica-Rangel • July 20, 2025

How to Help Your Child Prepare for the New School Year
By Maria Mojica-Rangel, PMHNP-BC | Harmony Psychiatry & Wellness

As summer winds down, many families face the emotional rollercoaster of preparing kids to return to school. For some children, this is an exciting time—new clothes, fresh supplies, and reconnecting with friends. But for others, the back-to-school transition can bring anxiety, uncertainty, and emotional resistance. The “back-to-school blues” are real, and it’s important for parents to support children in managing them.

Here are some simple, evidence-based strategies to ease the transition:


1. Ease Back Into Routine Early

Start re-establishing school-year routines at least one to two weeks before the first day. Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times to match the school schedule. Involve kids in prepping lunchboxes, organizing school supplies, and planning outfits. These steps not only create a sense of readiness but also help reduce chaos on that first morning back.


2. Talk Openly About Feelings

Back-to-school anxiety often stems from the fear of the unknown—new teachers, different classmates, or tougher subjects. Encourage your child to express their concerns. Listen without judgment, and validate their feelings by letting them know it’s normal to feel nervous. You can even share stories of your own school experiences to normalize their worries.


3. Empower With Information

Help calm nerves by visiting the school before it starts. Walk the hallways, locate classrooms and lockers, and meet teachers if possible. Familiarity builds confidence. If your child is starting at a new school or is shy, consider connecting them with neighborhood kids or setting up a playdate to ease social anxiety.


4. Celebrate Small Wins

Facing fears and doing hard things builds resilience. Praise your child for small victories like speaking up in class, navigating the lunchroom, or simply getting through the day. This builds confidence and reinforces positive coping.


5. Get Involved—And Ask for Help

Join your school’s PTA, attend open houses, or meet with teachers to stay engaged. The more you know about your child’s environment, the better you can support them. If your child’s anxiety is overwhelming or persistent, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed mental health professional. Support is available—and effective.



Back-to-school transitions aren’t just about new supplies—they’re about emotional readiness. With a little planning and empathy, you can help your child start the year feeling supported, resilient, and ready to thrive.


Need more support as your child heads back to school? Harmony Psychiatry & Wellness offers compassionate mental health care for children, teens, and families in Colorado and Nebraska.

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Uncertainty is a part of life, but when challenges arise—whether financial strain, health concerns, or unexpected life changes—stress can feel overwhelming. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I often see patients struggling with the weight of uncertainty. While we can’t always control our circumstances, we can develop strategies to manage stress and protect our well-being. 1. Focus on What You Can Control Uncertainty often brings a sense of helplessness, but shifting your focus to what you can control can make a big difference. Create a daily routine, set small achievable goals, and prioritize self-care—these small steps provide stability in chaotic times. 2. Practice Mindfulness & Deep Breathing Grounding techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even a short mindful walk can help calm the nervous system. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. This simple practice can lower stress levels in minutes. 3. Limit Overexposure to Stressful News While staying informed is important, constantly checking news updates or social media can heighten anxiety. Set boundaries—perhaps limiting news intake to twice a day—and choose trusted sources to avoid unnecessary stress. 4. Stay Connected Uncertainty can make us withdraw, but maintaining connections with loved ones provides emotional support. Whether through a phone call, video chat, or a coffee meet-up, sharing your worries with someone who listens can be incredibly therapeutic. 5. Seek Professional Support When Needed If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Therapy, counseling, or speaking with a mental health provider can offer guidance and coping strategies tailored to your needs. Small psychiatric practices like ours provide a safe space for individuals to navigate their challenges with compassionate support.  Uncertainty may be unavoidable, but by taking small, intentional steps, we can build resilience and find peace amidst the unknown.