Navigating the Waters: Advice for Helping Young People Transitioning Back to School

As your teen heads back to school, it’s normal for them to feel anxious or uncertain—and for you as a parent or caregiver to wonder how to best support them. Transitions can bring up stress, overwhelm, and mood changes, but with guidance and connection, you can help them navigate this time more smoothly.

Encourage Healthy Routines

Help your teen establish a predictable routine that balances schoolwork, rest, and leisure. Encourage them to pace themselves and set realistic goals for the week, offering support as they adjust to new schedules. Creating structure can help reduce anxiety and give them a sense of control.

Support Emotional Regulation

Remind your teen to take breaks when needed, and help create opportunities for grounding activities like quiet time, movement, or journaling. Model healthy coping strategies yourself—deep breathing, mindfulness, and self-reflection can all be learned through observation.

Stay Connected

Check in regularly with your teen, and help them maintain connections with friends, teachers, and mentors. Open conversations can help them process challenges and feel supported, while also giving you insight into how they’re adjusting.

Watch for Signs of Stress

Pay attention to changes in mood, energy, or behavior. If your teen seems unusually withdrawn, irritable, or struggles to sleep, these can be signs they may need extra support. Ask open-ended questions to encourage sharing, and validate their experiences without judgment.

Offer Encouragement and Patience

Transitions take time. Celebrate small wins, acknowledge effort, and remind your teen that it’s normal to feel uncertainty as they adjust. Your support and reassurance can make a meaningful difference in how they experience change.

Stay Connected and Get Resources

Looking for support in strengthening your relationship with your teen or child? Schedule a consultation to explore counseling, guidance, and strategies for parenting challenges, communication, and building stronger, healthier connections.

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