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Simple, Practical Tips to Ease the Transition
The first day of school can stir up a lot of emotions—especially for kids. Whether it’s the excitement of a new backpack or the nerves of meeting a new teacher, a little preparation can make a big difference.
Here are practical, real-life tips to help your child feel more confident, organized, and ready for whatever the new school year brings.
Visit the School (or Get Familiar in Other Ways)
If your school offers an open house or back-to-school night, go! Walking the halls, finding their classroom, and meeting the teacher can take away a lot of unknowns. Can’t make it in person?
- Check the school’s website for a staff photo or welcome message
- Look through last year’s yearbook to put a face to the teacher’s name
- Talk about what the classroom and playground might be like
Familiarity reduces anxiety. Even small things—like seeing where their backpack will hang—can help kids feel more secure.
Rebuild Your Routine
One week before school starts, begin adjusting:
- Bedtimes
- Wake-up times
- Breakfast and snack routines
You don’t have to go all in on Day 1—but easing into structure now will help those first early mornings go more smoothly.
Bonus tip: Practice a few full “school mornings” ahead of time, including getting dressed, brushing teeth, and heading to the bus or car.
Reconnect With Friends
If your child is nervous about being alone, arrange a quick playdate or meet-up with school friends before the first day. Even one familiar face can make a huge difference.
Make Back-to-School Shopping a Tradition
Kids don’t need a ton of stuff—but a fresh notebook or cool set of pens can help them get excited.
- Inventory last year’s supplies first
- Let them pick out one “fun” thing
- Don’t forget shoes, socks, and lunch containers
This is also a good time to sort through their wardrobe and donate anything they’ve outgrown.
Talk About Anxiety (It’s Normal!)
Feeling nervous is completely normal—and it’s helpful to remind kids of that.
- Tell stories of how you felt starting something new
- Send a little note in their lunch box
- Practice a calming strategy together (deep breaths, silly mantra, or drawing how they feel)
If last year was tough—socially or emotionally—touch base with your child’s new teacher and give them a heads-up.
For the most comprehensive collection of advice, visit our master guide to school year success for families.
Designate Drop Zones
Give backpacks, shoes, and lunchboxes a consistent home:
- Set up a bin or hook near the door
- Create an “inbox” for permission slips and papers
- Teach kids to unpack their own bags after school
Making it part of their daily routine helps the whole family stay organized.
Create a Homework-Friendly Space
Even young kids benefit from having a spot that’s theirs to do schoolwork.
- Older kids: a quiet area in their room
- Younger kids: a space near the kitchen or living room
- Remove distractions like tablets or TVs nearby
Check out our full post on how to set up a homework space for kids that actually works.
Build an After-School Schedule
Set predictable rhythms that include:
- Snack time
- Play/free time
- Homework
- Dinner
- Screen limits
- Bedtime routine
Consider using a visual schedule for younger kids or an app for older ones to help them build independence.
Do Something Fun Together
The first day of school is a big deal—for both of you. Celebrate the transition with something fun:
- Go out for ice cream
- Visit your favorite playground
- Plan a cozy movie night after Day One
Little traditions create big memories—and can ease the stress that comes with change.
Bonus: Back-to-School Hacks Just for Parents
Helping your child feel ready is one thing—but there’s a lot on your plate, too. These parent-focused hacks will make the transition smoother for everyone:
Mark Key Dates in One Sitting
Sit down with your planner and plug in everything from the first day of school to holiday breaks and parent-teacher conferences. While you’re at it, create a single folder (paper or digital) for important docs like immunization records and permission slips. You’ll thank yourself later.
Prep Lunches (and Dinners!)
Freeze sandwiches, batch snacks into grab-and-go bins, or create a two-week dinner rotation to keep things simple during those first hectic weeks.
Want more? Check out these 10 Back-to-School Hacks to Save You Time (and sanity).
Final Thoughts
Helping your child feel confident and prepared for the first day of school doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few intentional steps—some structure, a little fun, and lots of support—can go a long way.
You’ve got this. And so do they.
Related Posts You May Like:
- The Ultimate Back-to-School Checklist for Parents (2025)
- Best Lunch Box Jokes For Kids
- 5 Practical Back-to-School Tips From Teachers
- 50 Best Free Educational Websites for Kids in 2025
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
