The “New School Year Scaries”: What They Are and How to Ease Them

The phrase “new school year scaries” isn’t one you’ll find in medical journals, but it’s a term

parents, teachers, and even mental health professionals use to describe that mix of butterflies, nerves, and anticipation that surfaces as a new school year begins.

It’s a blend of excitement, anticipation, and uncertainty. Even the most prepared parent and the most gifted student can feel a little on edge. With shifting routines, fresh academic challenges, new teachers, and evolving social dynamics, this annual transition impacts not only children, but also parents and educators.

The good news? A little bit of the “scaries” can actually be a positive thing. Nervous energy

often signals alertness, motivation, and readiness to adapt. It’s a reminder that children are

processing their surroundings and preparing for change.

Approachable Ways to Tame the “New School Year Scaries”

Here are some strategies to help families turn those jitters into confidence:

1. Share Stories & Reframe the Transition

Remind kids of how they overcame first-day jitters in the past. Tell specific stories from last year to show how new routines eventually felt normal. Reframe the new grade level as an adventure filled with opportunities, privileges, and growth.

2. Establish Routines Early

Predictability is comforting. Create structure with bedtime and morning routines, pack backpacks the night before and lay out clothes in advance. Visual schedules and checklists can make mornings smoother for everyone.

3. Model Calm Coping Skills

Children mirror the emotions of their caregivers. When parents project calm and confidence,

kids often follow suit. Encourage coping tools like deep breathing, positive self-talk, or knowing which trusted adults (teachers, guidance counselors, nurses) are available at school.

4. Create First-Day Traditions

Traditions anchor kids in familiarity. Whether it’s the same breakfast each year, an after-school snack spot, a porch photo, school bus stop picture, or a special song in the car, rituals make the day feel special and predictable.

5. Foster Independence

Empower children by letting them pick their outfit, pack their lunch, or choose school supplies. Encourage them to join an activity, try out for something new, or walk into school independently. Independence builds confidence and reduces jitters.

6. Connection Over Perfection

Remind your child—and yourself—that the first week doesn’t need to be perfect. Success looks like progress, not flawlessness. Celebrate small wins, like making it through the day with a smile or trying something new.

7. Keep Communication Open

Regular conversations about school help kids feel seen and supported. Try fun, structured prompts to spark conversation:

● “One New Thing” Game: Ask them to share one new thing they saw, learned, or tried.

● Role Reversal Game: Let them coach you on how to handle a “new situation.”

● Back-to-School Bucket List: Create a fun list of things to look forward to.

● Micro-Bravery Challenge: Pick one brave act a day (introduce yourself, ask a question,

try a new table at lunch).

● Goal-Setting Tradition: Ask, “What do you want to learn, do, or try this year?”

● Rose & Thorn Game: Share the best and trickiest part of the day (parents join in, too).

The “new school year scaries” are often expected and even healthy. With validation, structure, predictability and few traditions, families can transform nervous anticipation into confidence and enthusiasm. Above all, the most effective antidote is simple: recognize the jitters, remind your child they are not alone, and reassure them that soon, these new routines will feel like second

nature very quickly!

Wishing you and your family a wonderful school year!