Back to school without the stress: How parents can help children settle in

Early nights, clear routines and a balance between study and downtime are the key ingredients for a smooth return to school.

The long summer break is a cherished time for families. But as August fades and September looms, the return to early mornings, packed lunches and piles of homework can feel daunting.

Teachers describe the first weeks back as “intense,” and parents often struggle with the shift from freedom to routine. The good news is that with the right strategies in place, children can make a calm, confident start to the new school year.

Reset the Routine
Sleep is the foundation of school success. After weeks of late nights, easing children back into earlier bedtimes makes a huge difference. “A good night’s sleep helps children concentrate, manage emotions and get the most from their school day,” says Elaine Lingard, founder of Emerald Education Centre. Experts recommend 9-11 hours for primary pupils and 8-10 hours for teenagers, though many fall short.

Practical tips include dimming lights an hour before bed, turning off screens, and encouraging quiet reading or a bedtime story. The goal is to create predictable evening and morning routines that children can depend on.

Organisation is Half the Battle
Morning chaos is a familiar foe, but a few simple habits can transform it. Elaine advises parents to “prep the night before wherever possible.” That means checking timetables, packing school bags, laying out uniforms and sports gear, and even preparing lunchboxes.

A family “launch pad” (a basket or shelf near the door for bags, shoes and essentials) can prevent last-minute panics. Visual checklists are especially effective for younger children or those who get anxious about forgetting things.

Homework Versus Screen Time
Homework often sparks battles in September. The key, says Elaine Lingard, is balance. “A quiet, distraction-free space and a ‘homework first, screens later’ rule works well. But don’t demonise all screen time - sometimes technology is an important part of learning.”

Parents should encourage short study sessions with breaks, and avoid late-night phone or gaming use, which can disrupt sleep.

Independence and Confidence
As children grow older, encouraging independence pays off. Parents should gradually hand over responsibility: asking children what they need for the next day rather than telling them, encouraging them to check their own homework, or involving them in making lunches. “Children gain confidence when they feel trusted to manage their own school day,” says Elaine.

Protecting Downtime
Finally, remember that September can be exhausting. Clubs, activities and homework pile up quickly, and overscheduling can lead to burnout. A balanced week with time for family meals, outdoor play, and simply relaxing helps children recharge.

Back-to-school doesn’t need to mean back-to-stress. With preparation, balance and encouragement, families can transform the September scramble into a fresh start - and give children the best chance to thrive in the months ahead.