Psychologists recommend a slow transition into term-time routines, prioritising rest and familiar habits to reduce anxiety and avoid academic pressure as children return to school after summer holidays.
A smooth return to school after the summer break works best when children are well rested and not pushed straight back into heavy study, clinical psychologist Tatiana Meteleva told Lenta.ru. She said the long holiday should be used to recover from the school year rather than to pack in tutors, extra lessons or advance preparation.
Meteleva advised parents to begin easing children back into term-time habits about a week before classes resume. That means moving bedtime and wake-up times earlier in small steps, so the first early mornings do not feel like a shock. Johns Hopkins Medicine gives similar advice, recommending a gradual reset of sleep routines before school starts.
Several experts also say children cope better when the transition feels familiar and predictable. Cleveland Clinic recommends re-establishing regular bedtimes, meal times and morning routines, while also talking through any worries a child may have. Johns Hopkins Medicine adds that visiting the school beforehand, arranging time with friends and praising independent behaviour can all help reduce anxiety.
Meteleva also warned against putting full academic pressure back on children too quickly. She suggested gently reintroducing mental effort in the days before the new term through reading and a light review of last year’s material, rather than forcing a complete study schedule. The psychologist said children need encouragement if difficulties arise, and parents should look for the real cause of any problem instead of reacting with criticism. If progress does not come, she said, professional help may be needed.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
