Health · Fitness & Nutrition · 1 day ago
How to spot and support children struggling with the return to school
Returning to school after the summer holidays can be a difficult adjustment for children.
The change brings a more structured day, and new subjects, exams or a change of school can add pressure.
Experts say signs of trouble may include ongoing tiredness, difficulty getting organised, or frustration and anxiety about lessons or homework.
Parents can help by setting steady routines for mornings, after-school time and bedtime, and by helping children check their timetable and pack the night before.
If a child appears to be struggling with schoolwork, parents can speak with the teacher for that subject.
Parents who have broader concerns can raise them with the school at a settling-in evening or tutor meeting.
Preparing notes and approaching the discussion constructively can help make it easier to address the problem.
Returning to school after the summer holidays can be a difficult adjustment for children, experts say.
Possible signs of difficulty include sleep problems, disorganisation, and worries about schoolwork.
Parents are advised to establish consistent routines and talk with children about what is troubling them.
If a child is struggling in a subject, parents can contact the teacher or school to discuss support.
- Who
- Children returning to school, and the parents supporting them.
- What
- Experts describe signs that children may be struggling and suggest ways parents can help.
- When
- After the summer holidays, as children return to school.
- Where
- At home and in school.
- Why
- The change from holiday freedom to a regular routine can be difficult; new subjects, exams, or changing schools can add pressure.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
They may have mixed emotions as they start school again, from excitement to dread – this is normal.
It’s vital this is done in a constructive way, as this will make the issue much easier to resolve.
Supporting good sleep hygiene, such as consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, calm evening activities, and limiting screens before bed can help children feel more settled, rested, and ready to engage with the school day.
It helps if parents can work with their children to ensure they check their timetable, pack the night before and have everything they need to be ready for school the next day.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Article publication
- 2026-10-10 20:46 UTC
- Parenting programme
- Triple P UK and Ireland
- Teaching union
- Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL)
- Possible sign
- Trouble sleeping
- Possible sign
- Disorganisation
- Possible sign
- Worries about schoolwork
Sources
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