First Week Jitters: Helping Kids Feel Confident Going Back to School

The first week of school can bring big feelings for kids and grown-ups too. Some children can’t wait to see their friends and meet their new teacher. Others might feel nervous, shy, or unsure about what’s ahead.

“First week jitters” are totally normal. With a little preparation and support, you can help your child feel more calm, confident, and ready for the year ahead.

Talk About What to Expect

Kids feel better when they know what’s coming. Take time to walk through what their school day might look like.

You can talk about:

• What time they’ll wake up and leave the house
• Where they’ll hang their backpack
• What lunch or snack time looks like
• Who they should check with if they have any concerns at school
• How they’ll get home
  
  

It’s okay if they have questions you can’t answer. Just being honest and listening helps them feel supported.

Ask them about what they are most looking forward to…and if there is anything they are worried about.

Practicing gratitude and identifying things to look forward to is a good way to set your child up with a calm mindset for school. Let your child know that feeling nervous is normal. You can say:

“It’s okay to feel a little worried about new things. Grown-ups feel that way too!”

• Ask your child to name three things they are excited about or appreciate about school
• Ask open-ended questions such as, “Is there anything that you’re concerned about with going back to school” and talk them through ways to manage potential challenges 
• Give them ways to manage big feelings, like:

• Taking deep breaths
• Holding a small comfort item
• Thinking of something fun they’re looking forward to

Create Simple Routines & Practice New Skills

The first week is easier when your child knows what to expect at home too. Routines help them feel safe and steady.

Try setting:

• A calm bedtime routine (bath, book, sleep) & enough sleep at night
  
  • How Many Hours Does Your Child Need
• A morning routine with enough time to get ready. 
  
  • Consider picking out clothes and packing backpacks before dinner
• A goodbye routine, like a special hug or handshake
  
  

Confidence grows with practice. Before school starts, try role-playing how to:

• Say hello to a new teacher or classmate
• Ask for help in class
• Letting you know if something doesn’t feel comfortable at school
• Open a lunchbox or snack container
  
  

These small skills make a big difference on the first day.

Remember that children learn from parents and other trusted adults in how to manage new and challenging situations. Do your best to model calm. Have grace for yourself and your child if everything doesn’t go as planned.

Does your child receive or do you think they may benefit from special learning support? 

• If your child has an IEP or 504 plan make sure to check with the school to ensure your child’s teacher is aware of needed support.
• If you have concerns about your child’s learning, check with your pediatrician or school for appropriate assessment.   

Celebrate the Small Wins

Each day, acknowledge what went well. Did they walk in with a smile? Did they try something new? Celebrate those moments—it helps build confidence for the days ahead. 

Even confident kids may have ups and downs the first week. That’s okay! With your support, they’ll settle in, find their rhythm, and grow in ways you’ll be proud of all year long. Need help before, during, or after the first day? Blueberry pediatricians are here 24/7 to answer questions, calm worries, and support you through all the big feelings (and little sniffles) that come with the start of school.

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