As September arrives (and the rain along with it), families across the UK are swapping lazy summer mornings for packed lunches, uniforms and the buzz of a new academic year. For children, the start of the school term can feel exciting but also overwhelming, whether they’re stepping into a brand-new classroom, meeting a different teacher and peers, or simply just adjusting after a long break.
Supporting children through this transition is about more than ticking off the back-to-school shopping list at WH Smith. It’s about helping them feel grounded, confident and prepared (dare we even say eager) to learn. Parents and nannies play an essential role in creating that sense of security and with a few thoughtful steps, our guide can help the shift into term-time routines that feel smoother for everyone.
Ways of Making the Transition Easier
Ease into routines gradually: Rather than switching suddenly from summer freedom to strict schedules, try gently reintroducing school-day habits over the remainder of the holidays and over the first couple of weeks back. This means earlier bedtimes, structured mealtimes, and setting out clothes or bags the night before but all can make school mornings calmer.
Create space for conversations: Encourage children to talk about what they’re looking forward to, as well as any worries they might have. For younger children, drawing or role-playing can help them express feelings. For older children, relaxed chats on walks or car journeys can often open the door to meaningful conversations.
Reconnect socially: Familiar friendships make school feel less daunting. Whether it’s arranging a playdate, attending a sports practice, or meeting classmates at the park, social connections before term begins and in the first few weeks back can help reduce nerves.
Building Healthy Routines and Setting Habits
Establish a clear daily schedule: Children thrive on predictability. As the return to school approaches and they settle into the new term, make sure to establish regular times for meals, homework, play and rest to help them feel secure and balanced.
Set up a ‘learning corner’: Having a quiet, organised spot at home dedicated to schoolwork and study. This can even be as simple as a cleared dining table or a desk in their bedroom but by stocking the space with pencils, paper and providing good lighting, you can signal to children that learning has its own space and importance.
Encourage independence: Teach children that are entering secondary education how to use planners, checklists or calendars to track homework and activities. These skills not only build responsibility but can also ease the load on parents and nannies to keep them on track.
Be supportive, not directive: When it comes to homework, step in as a guide rather than a fixer. Ask prompting questions, encourage problem-solving and celebrate effort as much as accuracy.
Managing Back-to-School Nerves
It’s natural for some children to feel unsettled at the start of term, especially if they’re moving to a new school or stepping into a different stage of education. Here are some ways to ease those jitters:
Acknowledge feelings openly: Let children know it’s completely normal to feel nervous, and share your own examples of times you’ve faced new beginnings. This can create a feeling of safety and encourage them to express their true emotions.
Do a practice run: For children starting a new journey – perhaps taking the bus or walking to school – try out the route together before the term begins. Mixing practice runs with opportunities to build independence helps them feel capable and reassured.
Focus on positives: Whether it’s mastering the bus route, remembering their timetable or making a new friend, praise your child’s effort and celebrate achievements, however great or small. Positive reinforcement builds resilience and confidence.
Be present and listen: Sometimes, the most helpful thing is simply being available. Listening carefully to worries gives children the reassurance that their concerns matter and allows parents and nannies to step in early if support is needed.
Every child experiences the start of a new school year differently and there’s no sole right or wrong approach. What matters most is patience, flexibility and consistent support from the adults in their lives. The new academic year isn’t just about getting through the first few weeks – it’s about laying strong foundations for growth, resilience and success; with a thoughtful start to the term, children can embrace school not just as a place of learning but a positive place to learn and have fun with peers.