Our Works of Charity / David Bethuram

Help children make their return to school much easier

Catholic Charities assists children and families experiencing periods of transition by providing essential services, emotional support, and faith centered care that strengthens their path forward.

As the summer comes to a close and school is getting back into session, here are a couple quick reminders to help make the transition from the beach to the classroom easier for you and your child.

Returning to school often means reconnecting with friends and navigating new social situations. Some children may be excited, while others may feel anxious about making friends, joining a new class, or fitting in with their peers. Encourage your child to talk openly about any worries and remind them that many of their classmates are likely experiencing similar feelings. If possible, arrange a playdate or attend school events before classes begin to help your child feel more comfortable and confident. Listening without judgment and offering reassurance can go a long way toward easing social anxiety.

Summer schedules often bring changes in eating, sleeping, screen time, and physical activity. A few weeks before school begins, start gradually reintroducing healthy habits that support learning and well-being. Encourage nutritious meals, regular exercise, and consistent sleep schedules. Limiting screen time, especially before bed, can improve sleep quality and help children feel more rested and ready to learn. Healthy routines provide the foundation for academic success and emotional well-being.

Helping your child feel prepared can reduce anxiety and build excitement for the new school year. Involve your child in gathering school supplies, organizing a study space at home, and talking about goals for the coming year. Whether it is improving grades, making new friends, or trying a new activity, setting achievable goals can give your child a sense of purpose and motivation. Celebrating small successes throughout the year helps build confidence and resilience.

A strong partnership between families and schools benefits children in many ways. Take time to attend open houses, review school communications, and introduce yourself to teachers when possible. Maintaining open communication with school staff helps you stay informed about your child’s progress and allows concerns to be addressed early. When children see parents and teachers working together, they feel support both at home and at school.

For some children, back-to-school worries can include fear of the unknown, academic concerns, or separation anxiety. Encourage your child to express their feelings and help them identify strategies that work when they feel overwhelmed, such as taking deep breaths, talking with a trusted adult, or focusing on positive experiences. Remind your child that feeling nervous about a new school year is normal and that challenges can often become easier with time and practice.

The transition back to school can be exciting, challenging and emotional for both children and parents. By establishing routines, maintaining open communication, encouraging healthy habits, and providing plenty of support and encouragement, you can help your child start the school year with confidence and success.

And if you find that these transitions are harder than expected or find yourself needing any additional help or support, the doors at Catholic Charities are always open. Our staff is available to provide resources, guidance and support to help children and families thrive throughout the school year.
 

(David Bethuram is executive director of the archdiocesan Secretariat for Catholic Charities. You can contact him at dbethuram@archindy.org.) †