Back to school: How to support your child through the transition

Posted: 25th August 2026

For some, heading back to school can be exciting. For others, it brings nerves and uncertainty. Whether your child is starting a new school, moving into a new year group or simply getting back into their usual routine, a little preparation and reassurance can make the transition easier.

At SELFA, we know that any change can be challenging for young people. This is why we offer a safe space to talk, mental health support, fun activities and targeted transition groups, like our Inspire group.

“Preparing children for secondary school starts with improving confidence, building their self-esteem and encouraging working together as part of a team,” says Michaela Jacques, a children and young people’s worker and volunteer coordinator at SELFA.

“We discuss ways in how we talk to someone if we are upset or scared by a situation, what we can and can’t control during a change. But also talk about the excitement that a new change brings. We do lots of activities about growth mindset and how we change a negative into a positive.”

What is Selfa inspire?

Our Inspire group is designed to help children in year 6 prepare for the transition to secondary school. The group encourages children to build confidence, develop independence and learn practical skills to help them navigate the challenges of starting high school.

Transitioning to secondary school can feel daunting, but Inspire gives children the opportunity to:

• Build confidence and independence for secondary school and beyond.
• Develop practical skills to manage new routines and responsibilities.
• Take part in team games, problem-solving activities and other fun challenges.
• Make new friends with other children who are also preparing for secondary school.
• Share worries, thoughts and experiences during circle time in a safe and supportive environment.

The group is supportive, child-led and fun, giving children the skills, confidence and connections they need to feel prepared, comfortable and positive about starting secondary school.

But, there are also lots of ways you can support your child at home and prepare them for the start of the school year.

Talk about how they are feeling

Give your child opportunities to talk about going back to school, without putting pressure on them to feel a certain way. Ask open questions such as, “How are you feeling about going back?” or “Is there anything you’re looking forward to?”

If they’re worried, try to listen without immediately trying to fix the problem. Letting them know that feeling nervous is completely normal can help them feel understood and supported.

Children don’t always open up straight away, but you can let them know that you’re there when they’re ready to talk.

get back into a routine

As school approaches, gradually returning to regular bedtimes, wake-up times and mealtimes can help make the first few days feel less overwhelming.

Preparing school clothes, bags and equipment together can also give your child a sense of control and help avoid a stressful morning.

use books and games

There are plenty of books with stories about starting school, which can help children process transitions in a way they understand. Your local library will be able to help you find a suitable book. There are also free games and other resources online, to help children learn about their upcoming routines. For example, this BBC Bitesize ‘My First Day At School’ game.

make time for connection

The start of a new school year can be busy, so make space for small moments of connection. A chat over breakfast, a walk after school or simply sitting together for a few minutes can give your child an opportunity to share what’s happening.

familiarise them

If your child is starting somewhere new, visiting the school beforehand or practising the journey together can help make the unfamiliar feel more familiar.

Help your child focus on the things they can look forward to, like seeing friends, favourite lessons, clubs, activities or simply getting back into familiar routines.

Be patient

It can take time for children to settle back into school. They may be more tired, emotional or irritable than usual during the first few weeks. Try to give them time and space to adjust, while keeping communication open. Reassure them that you’re there beside them.

And remember, you don’t have to have all the answers. If your child is struggling with school, friendships, anxiety or their wellbeing, talking to their teacher or another trusted professional can help. You can also talk to us – SELFA provides both one-on-one mentoring and one-on-one counselling to help children improve emotional wellbeing.

Read our article about how to support your child through their school exam results.