The first week of school always seems to hit harder than expected: for them and for us.

If you're sitting there wondering why your normally energetic kid is suddenly passed out on the couch by 6 PM or crying over a broken crayon, you're not alone.

In 5 days, kids get hit with a ton of "NEW". New teachers, new faces, new rules, new classrooms, new routines. No “pause” button, constant social engagement, cafeteria confusion, recess drama, and learning how to raise their hand again. All of it.

Even for kids who were excited to go back, it’s a lot.

Mentally, emotionally, and physically. The first week is like a full-body reset, and honestly, it hits parents pretty hard, too. So, just prepare yourself and remember if your kid seems a little “off” the first week, give them grace. They’re adjusting, and they’re not the only ones.

There are a few simple things you can do ahead of time to make the transition a little smoother for everyone:

Reset Their Routine Early

It's hard waking up early for the first day of school after a summer of all-nighters. A week or two before school starts, begin shifting bedtime and wake-up times to match the school schedule.

Ease Off the Screens

Tablets, Roblox, and YouTube keep the brain going a million miles an hour, even after you've turned them off. Start gradually cutting back on screens at least a week out.

Give Them a Checklist They Can Own

A simple, kid-friendly morning checklist can go a long way. A checklist of simple tasks like: “Brush teeth,” “Get dressed,” “Pack backpack.” Let them check off each task themselves.

Point out the fun aspects of school starting. 

Talk about how they will see old friends and meet new ones, for example.

Children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better.

As easy as a bowl of Fruit Loops seems, get that kid some protein. They do better in school, have better concentration, and have more energy.

Little shifts like these can make a big difference in how your kid handles the back-to-school transition.