How to Support Your Child’s Success During The School Year
As summer ends and a new school year approaches, excitement and anxiety often mix for kids and parents alike. New routines, friendships, and academic challenges can feel overwhelming. The good news is that thriving in school is not about perfection. It is about preparation, support, and connection.
Here are six practical strategies to help your child succeed and feel confident, safe, and supported this school year.
1. Establish a Routine Early
Summer schedules often shift later bedtimes and relaxed mornings. Returning to school is smoother when routines are reestablished gradually.
Tips:
- Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times a couple of weeks before school starts
- Create a calm morning routine including breakfast and a few minutes of quiet preparation
- Consistency helps reduce anxiety, improve focus, and create emotional safety
2. Address Academic Concerns
Academic worries can create stress, especially with new grades or subjects. Early support prevents frustration from escalating.
Tips:
- Review concepts from the previous school year to refresh memory and confidence
- Encourage realistic academic goals focusing on effort rather than perfection
- Seek tutoring or extra help early if needed to prevent challenges from snowballing
3. Support Healthy Social Skills and Friendships
Social dynamics can be one of the biggest challenges returning to school. Helping children navigate relationships builds confidence and resilience.
Tips:
- Encourage open conversations about friends, peer pressure, and social challenges
- Role-play scenarios to practice responses to difficult social situations
- Reinforce kindness, inclusion, and empathy to help your child advocate for themselves and others
4. Prioritize Emotional Well-Being
Anxiety, excitement, and stress all affect a child’s emotional health and ability to learn.
Tips:
- Check in regularly about how your child feels
- Teach coping strategies like deep breathing, journaling, or talking to a trusted adult
- Focus on positive aspects of school: learning, friendships, and new experiences
5. Prepare for the Unexpected
School transitions often include surprises such as schedule changes, new teachers, or social challenges.
Tips:
- Teach flexibility and problem-solving skills
- Encourage your child to speak up if something feels wrong
- Address issues early by communicating with teachers or school staff
6. Stay Actively Involved
Parental involvement shows children that their education and well-being matter.
Tips:
- Maintain open communication with teachers and school staff
- Attend school events, parent-teacher conferences, and meetings when possible
- Advocate for your child when necessary, creating a strong partnership between home and school
Why This Matters for Bullying Prevention
At the Diversity & Anti-Bullying Academy (#DABA), we teach that confidence, connection, and emotional awareness are key to preventing bullying.
Children who feel supported are:
- More likely to speak up when something is wrong
- Better able to regulate emotions
- Less likely to internalize bullying or act aggressively
- More likely to advocate for themselves and others
