As the new school year begins, experts highlight innovative ways for families to help children overcome ‘back to school blues’ and ease the transition through routine preparation and open communication.
As the school year approaches, some children and teenagers may feel more than ordinary first-day nerves. The Italian National Institute of Health says that the return to class can trigger a form of “back to school blues” that, in some cases, develops into anxiety. Younger children may show distress at separating from their parents, while older pupils can become preoccupied with academic performance.
Chiara Cattaneo of the institute said the adjustment is often temporary and can be eased by restoring routines before term starts. That means bringing bedtime and wake-up times back in line with school days, cutting back on screen use in the evening, and preparing school materials together. Health guidance cited by several US medical providers also points to open conversation and involving children in planning as simple ways to make the transition feel less sudden.
Sleep and food matter too. Cattaneo said regular meals and enough rest can make children less vulnerable to stress, irritability and poor concentration. Other health groups, including Geisinger and Talkspace, make similar points, noting that anxiety can be reduced when children know what to expect and have a chance to talk through worries before the first day.
The signs are not always emotional. Children who are struggling may complain of stomach aches, nausea, headaches or fatigue, or show changes in sleep and appetite. Some may try to avoid school-related activities or resist leaving home. US health organisations say parents can help by visiting the school or practising the journey in advance, and by creating a calmer home environment rather than increasing pressure.
For older students, slower breathing, planning the week ahead and sharing concerns with a trusted adult can help them settle in. Experts also warn against expecting an immediate return to full form in the first days of term. The broader message from education and health sources is that the return to school works best when families, schools and local support services coordinate closely, giving children time to adjust rather than demanding perfection straight away.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
