Posted on July 24, 2025

The back-to-school season isn’t just about school supplies and classroom prep—it’s also a time to think about students’ mental health. For kids dealing with anxiety, sensory overwhelm, or emotional challenges, this transition can be tough. Whether you’re a parent trying to get bedtime routines back on track or a teacher setting up a calm corner in your classroom, you play a big role in helping kids build emotional resilience.

Understanding Mental Health During School Transitions

Big changes—like starting a new grade or going back after summer break—can bring up a lot of feelings for students:

• School anxiety about things like grades or making friends
• Sensory sensitivity to noisy or crowded spaces
• Emotional stress from changes in routine or expectations

Catching these signs early can make a big difference. Try asking questions like, “What part of your school day feels hardest?” or “What do you wish teachers knew?”

Mental Health Support for Parents

• Validate your child’s emotions: Instead of saying “Don’t worry,” try “What’s worrying you?”
• Set up back-to-school routines: Visual schedules can help kids feel less stressed and more focused.
• Create a calming space at home: A sensory-friendly spot with tools for emotional regulation can work wonders.
• Encourage social-emotional learning at home: Use things like journaling, emotion cards, or calming affirmations.
• Work with teachers: Share what you know about your child’s triggers and what helps them cope.

Mental Health Strategies for Teachers

• Check in daily: Use emotion charts or mood meters to help kids talk about their feelings.
• Make your classroom inclusive: Tools like emotion cards, sensory menus, and flexible seating can support neurodivergent students.
• Normalize self-regulation: Movement breaks and mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress.
• Build strong relationships: When students feel emotionally safe, they do better in school.
• Team up with families: Work together to support students’ mental health.

Why This Matters

Taking care of mental health in schools isn’t just nice—it’s essential. When we focus on emotional wellness, we create classrooms where every student feels safe, supported, and ready to learn.