Back to school: supporting your child in the first week
The first week of September always feels like a fresh start. New shoes, sharpened pencils and the buzz of children seeing friends after the summer break all carry a sense of possibility. However, alongside the excitement there can also be worry. Children may feel nervous about a new classroom, anxious about keeping up with work or simply tired from the sudden return to structure after weeks of freedom.
As parents and carers, this week is about more than just uniforms and lunchboxes. It is about helping children find their feet so they can approach the year with confidence.
Why the first week matters
Teachers are setting expectations and routines quickly in September. Children who adapt well often find the rest of the term more manageable, while those who wobble can sometimes carry that feeling forward. By offering encouragement and building small, supportive habits at home, you can ease the transition.
Practical ways to support your child
Create calm evenings. After a long day back in class, children often need quiet time. Reading together, playing a board game, or even a short walk can help them unwind.
Talk about learning. Replace the usual “How was school?” with open questions such as “What was something interesting you found out today?” This helps children reflect more deeply and opens real conversations.
Support organisation. Bags packed the night before, PE kits ready, homework logged. These small steps prevent stressful mornings and help children feel prepared.
Notice small wins. Building confidence is about celebrating effort as much as results. Praise a child for trying, even if the outcome was not perfect (I will talk about the issue of striving for perfection in a later blog post!)
Balance rest and activities. While after-school clubs are great, the first week is tiring. Keep evenings gentle until energy levels adjust.
Spotting early signs of struggle
It is normal for children to take a little time to settle, but if your child seems unusually anxious, avoids homework or is already saying they feel “bad at” a subject, it might be a sign they need extra support. September is a good time to act, before difficulties grow. A few weeks of encouragement or additional tuition can help a child get back on track quickly.
Looking ahead
The first week is not about perfection. It is about building resilience, finding rhythms and reminding children that they have people in their corner. With steady support at home and in school, children can begin the year on a positive note and carry that confidence forward.
