While the excitement of a new school year has officially begun, it’s also a time of adjustment for both children and parents. New teachers, classrooms, classmates, routines, and expectations can bring a mix of emotions—and that’s completely normal.
Whether your child is thriving or having a difficult time settling in, remember that transitions take time. With patience, consistency, and support, you can help make this school year a positive one.
Check In With Yourself and Your Child
The first week of school can bring excitement, nervousness, exhaustion, or even frustration.
Take time to ask:
- How is my child feeling about school?
- What has gone well so far?
- What challenges have come up?
- How am I feeling as we adjust to this new routine?
Having open conversations each day creates opportunities for your child to share their experiences and lets them know you’re there to support them.
Keep Building the Routine
Even though school has started, routines are still developing. Consistency during these first few weeks helps children know what to expect.
Continue to:
- Keep regular bedtimes and wake-up times.
- Prepare backpacks and clothes the night before.
- Maintain predictable morning and evening routines.
- Continue conversations about school and celebrate small successes each day.
Help Your Child Navigate New Experiences
The beginning of the school year often means learning new routines, building friendships, and getting comfortable with new adults.
Talk through situations your child may experience, such as:
- Meeting new classmates
- Asking a teacher for help
- Joining classmates during lunch or group activities
- Working through misunderstandings
Role-playing these situations at home can help build confidence and reduce anxiety.
Stay Connected With Your School Team
The first few weeks are a great opportunity to establish positive communication with your child’s teachers and support staff.
Review your child’s IEP or Behavior Plan if applicable, introduce yourself to the school team, and share information that will help them better understand your child’s strengths and support needs.
Parent Network of WNY’s About My Child, All About Me, and Healthcare Passport forms can help provide valuable information that supports successful communication between families and schools.
Give Everyone Grace
Transitions can be exhausting—even when they’re exciting.
Your child may come home feeling overwhelmed after navigating a full day of learning, social interactions, and new expectations. You might notice changes in behavior, increased emotions, or fatigue.
During these first weeks:
- Lower expectations while everyone adjusts.
- Allow extra time to decompress after school.
- Use positive reinforcement and motivating activities.
- Try “First, Then” language to encourage cooperation.
- First, let’s finish homework. Then we can play your favorite game.
Remember, adjustment doesn’t happen overnight. If challenges arise, return to the basics—consistent routines, clear communication, and plenty of encouragement.
Parent Network of WNY Is Here to Help
Every school year comes with new opportunities and new challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.
Parent Network of WNY provides free education, resources, workshops, and one-on-one support to help families of children with disabilities successfully navigate school and beyond.
Call 716-332-4170 or email info@parentnetworkwny.org to learn more about the services and supports available to your family.
