Back to school: big changes, big feelings

Quick, practical tips for the first few weeks back: easier mornings, calmer pickups and steadier bedtimes.

  • A 3-minute read
  • Practical, judgement-free tips
  • Free to share with other parents
Back to school: big changes, big feelings

Why the first weeks can feel so big

New teacher, new classroom, new friends and new routines. A school day asks a lot of kids, and many hold it together all day, then let it all out at home. Developmental paediatrician Dr Angela Owens says this is common in the first few weeks, is a sign of a tired child rather than a badly behaved one, and usually eases within about a month.

A tricky afternoon is often a sign your child spent the whole day trying really hard.

Small tips for every part of the day

  • Mornings

    • Do the night-before five: clothes, bag, lunch, breakfast plan and tomorrow’s schedule.
    • Any breakfast counts, even a smoothie on the go.
    • Keep goodbyes short and warm.

  • After pickup

    • Bring a snack and save the questions for later.
    • Keep demands low for the first half-hour or so.
    • Let them move: the park, a bike ride or a kitchen dance.
    • Later, try “What made you laugh today?” instead of “How was your day?”

  • Evenings

    • Keep bedtime and wake-up steady, weekends too.
    • Most 5 to 13 year olds need 9 to 11 hours of sleep.
    • Read together for 10 minutes, with screens off an hour before bed.

  • The week ahead

    • Choose rewards that mean time together, not food or toys.
    • Plan one fun family thing a week, plus some time alone with each child.
    • Cut yourself some slack too.

Tips summarised in our own words from Dr Angela Owens’ advice in Queensland Health (January 2026), with sleep figures from the Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, the screen-time tip from the American Academy of Pediatrics, and a few ideas from the SmartKidz team.

When to reach out for extra support

Most kids settle with time and a steady routine. If things aren’t easing after the first month, worries are getting in the way of school, or something just doesn’t feel right, talk to your child’s teacher, the school wellbeing team or your GP. Asking early is a strength.

Support lines
Australia: Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 · Lifeline 13 11 14
Canada: Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 · 9-8-8
United States: 988
In an emergency, call 000 in Australia or 911 in the US and Canada.