Supporting Children Back Into School This September: Navigating the Transition Storm
As September approaches and the new school year begins, many children — especially those who are more vulnerable — can find the change overwhelming. The shift in routine, the unfamiliar classrooms, and the goodbyes to familiar teachers can stir up feelings of loss, anxiety, and even old fears of being left behind.
This period, often called the "transition storm", can be challenging for both children and the adults supporting them. But with preparation, patience, and a lot of reassurance, you can help smooth the way.
Preparing Yourself First
Before you can support a child through change, it’s important to ground yourself.
Acknowledge the storm: Remind yourself that tricky behaviour often masks inner worry or sadness. Your calm presence can be their anchor.
Look after yourself: These emotional waters can be choppy, so lean on your own support network and practise self-care.
Avoid punishments: Consequences, shaming, or withdrawal often make transitions harder. Instead, focus on understanding and connection.
Helping Children See the Change Coming
Children feel safer when they know what to expect.
Talk openly about the end of the holidays and the start of the new term: “Sometimes starting a new class can feel a bit scary. I’m here to help you through it.”
Help them name their feelings: “I wonder if moving up to Year X is making you feel nervous?”
Connect their actions to emotions: “When you hide under the table, I wonder if you’re not sure where to feel safe. You’re safe with me.”
Offering Reassurance and Structure
Sometimes children don’t know what they need, so give them the words anyway:
“I care about you.”
“I’m not going anywhere.”
“You’re safe and protected.”
“Even when we’re apart, I’m thinking of you.”
Practical tips:
If routines will be different, explain step-by-step what’s happening — using pictures or visual aids where possible.
Keep to familiar routines as much as you can. Predictability builds security.
Calming the Body to Calm the Mind
Anxious feelings often show up in the body. Help children regulate physically:
Do short bursts of movement — star jumps, wall push-ups, quick walks.
Use playful breathing — blow bubbles or “blow away the butterflies” in their tummy.
Share calming activities together, like stretching or gentle touch.
Staying Connected — Even Apart
Small, tangible reminders can help children feel close to you when you’re not together:
Draw matching hearts on your hands before school.
Give them a small object (stone, photo, trinket) to hold onto during the day.
Teachers can offer a “transition card” — a short note or doodle for the child to keep until you meet again.
Allow them to use their comfort items (like a soft toy) when needed.
The most important message?
Transitions can be tough, but they don’t last forever. By staying connected, offering reassurance, and keeping routines predictable, you and your child can weather the storm together — and come out the other side stronger, calmer, and ready to embrace the new school year.