(BPT) - As backpacks get packed, homework returns and family schedules fill up, many parents and caregivers assume the hardest part of back-to-school season is the initial reentry.
But for many children, the real adjustment happens in the weeks after school begins.
New teachers, academic expectations, social dynamics, extracurricular activities and changing routines can create stress that isn't always obvious. While some children openly talk about their worries, others show signs through changes in behavior, sleep, mood or motivation.
"Many families focus on getting through the first day of school, but the real adjustment often happens over the following weeks," said Dr. Sascha Arbouet, child/adolescent psychiatrist and Medical Director, Pediatrics at Bend Health, a national provider of pediatric mental health care. "Children aren't just adjusting to being back in the classroom. They're taking on new teachers, new routines, new classmates, new expectations and often a full schedule of extracurricular activities. That's a lot for any child to process. While the start of the school year is often exciting, it can also be mentally and emotionally exhausting. Paying attention to changes in mood, sleep, behavior or school avoidance can help families identify concerns early."
Parents and caregivers can play an important role in helping children navigate the transition and build confidence as the school year gets underway.
1. Ask intentional questions
Many children struggle to answer broad questions like, "How was school today?"
Instead, try asking more specific questions:
- What was the best part of your day?
- What felt challenging?
- Who did you spend time with today?
- Is there anything you're worried about this week?
Small, consistent conversations can help children feel comfortable sharing concerns before they become bigger issues.
2. Watch for changes in behavior
School-related stress doesn't always sound like, "I'm scared."
Children may become more irritable, withdrawn, emotional, tired or resistant to school routines. Others may seem less interested in activities they typically enjoy.
Some sadness that summer is over, irritability from feeling exhausted or anxiety about a new routine is completely normal during the first few weeks of school. What becomes more concerning is when those reactions are persistent or begin interfering with everyday life. If a child doesn't want to go to school several days each week, consistently struggles to sleep or eat, or their mood or behavior continues to worsen instead of improving, it may be time to seek additional support.
3. Prioritize sleep and routines
One of the simplest ways to support children's mental health is maintaining consistent routines.
Regular sleep schedules, predictable mornings and structured after-school routines help children feel more secure during periods of change. Sleep plays an important role in emotional regulation, attention, learning and overall well-being.
Caregivers should also be mindful of overscheduling. Sports, clubs and extracurricular activities can be valuable, but children also need time to recharge.
4. Stay connected with teachers and other trusted adults
Families don't have to navigate school transitions alone.
Teachers, school counselors, coaches and other trusted adults can often provide valuable insight into how a child is adjusting. Open communication between home and school can help identify concerns early and create a stronger support system around the child.
This can be especially helpful for children with ADHD, anxiety, autism, learning differences or other behavioral health needs.
5. Know when to seek help
Some adjustment challenges improve naturally as children settle into new routines. Others may persist or worsen over time.
Parents and caregivers should consider seeking professional support if anxiety, mood changes, behavioral challenges, school avoidance or emotional distress begin interfering with daily life, friendships, family relationships, sleep or academic performance.
"The earlier we identify concerns, the easier it is to provide support before small challenges become bigger obstacles," said Arbouet. "Parents and caregivers know their children best. If something feels different or concerning, it's worth paying attention to."
Bend Health provides virtual mental health care, coaching, psychiatry and caregiver support for children, teens and young adults. By working with young people and their families, Bend helps build practical skills that support emotional well-being throughout the school year and beyond.
For more information, visit www.BendHealth.com.
