The last couple of weeks of summer often feel like a whirlwind trying to soak up the sunshine while also preparing for the big shift back to school. For many children, that transition can bring excitement, jitters, or even big emotions. The good news is that with a little planning and practice, you can help your child feel more prepared and confident heading into September.
Here are some practical strategies you can start using now to make the transition smoother for both you and your child:
1. Start Shifting Sleep and Wake Times
Summer schedules often mean later bedtimes and slow mornings. Begin adjusting your child’s sleep routine gradually, moving bedtime earlier by 10–15 minutes every couple of days. Waking them up a bit earlier in the morning will help their body clock reset, so the first school mornings feel less like a shock.
✨ Pro Tip: Establish a calm, predictable morning routine now (e.g., wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth). Practice it so it becomes familiar before the first day.
2. Practice Key Routines Together
Many parts of the school day require independence. Practice these skills at home so your child feels capable and confident:
- Putting on and taking off shoes
- Zipping up backpacks and coats
- Opening lunch containers, water bottles, and snack packages
- Following a “morning routine” from start to finish
You can make this fun by turning it into pretend play. For example, “Let’s play school morning” or “Let’s pretend we’re having snack at school.”
3. Preview What’s Coming
Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety. Some ways to do this include:
- Visiting the school playground or walking by the building
- Looking at photos of the school, teacher, or classroom (if available)
- Talking through the daily schedule (bus rides, recess, lunchtime, pick-up, and home time)
- Reading back-to-school picture books together
4. Prep for After-School Regulation
School days can be physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. Having an after-school routine helps kids reset and recharge.
- Put together a calm-down kit with items like noise-cancelling headphones, a cozy blanket, fidget tools, coloring supplies, or favorite books.
- Decide together what after-school time looks like: quiet time, outdoor play, or a healthy snack before diving into homework or activities.
5. Emphasize Connection and Emotional Readiness
Kids often experience mixed feelings about going back to school – excitement, nervousness, or sadness about the end of summer.
- Talk about feelings openly: “It’s normal to feel nervous before something new.”
- Validate emotions: Instead of brushing worries away, let your child know their feelings are real and that you’re there to support them.
- Build in special moments of connection (reading together, bedtime chats, or a family walk) to help your child feel grounded.
6. Other Helpful Tips
- Involve your child in school prep: Let them pick out a backpack, snack containers, or school supplies. This gives them a sense of ownership and excitement.
- Plan a goodbye ritual: Whether it’s a secret handshake, a hug, or a special phrase, having a predictable send-off can make drop-offs smoother.
- Ease into structure at home: If summer has been very relaxed, start reintroducing some structure to meals, chores, and screen time.
Final Thoughts
Transitions are easier when kids know what to expect, feel capable in their routines, and feel emotionally supported. By starting now, you give your child time to adjust gradually. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection but practice, connection, and confidence.
At Hand and Heart Kid’s OT, we know every child approaches change differently. If your child needs extra support building independence, managing big emotions, or feeling ready for school, we’re here to help.
Hand and Heart Kid's Occupational Therapy - London 