Happy new (school) year!

Easing the back-to-school transition for kids and parents

By AMY SOWDER 

As the new school year approaches, families across northern Westchester face the familiar challenge of transitioning from relaxed vacation schedules to structured academic routines. Fortunately, pediatricians, nutrition experts and veteran parents offer valuable strategies to make this transition smoother.

Make gradual schedule adjustments 

Dr. Maryann Buetti-Sgouros, chair of pediatrics at Northern Westchester Hospital, emphasized making gradual changes rather than abrupt ones. 

“I recommend slowly adding structure to the day with slow incorporation of the activities that will comprise the school year,” she said.

Start weeks before school with scheduled reading time, math games or arts and crafts. Most importantly, adjust bedtime and wake-up time by just 15 minutes every night or two. “That will adjust the circadian rhythm just enough to make the transition to getting up and going to bed a little less jarring,” she said.

Mount Kisco parent, Serena Norr, mother of three daughters, echoed this approach. “Getting back into the routines midsummer can help ease the schedule transitions,” said Norr. “For younger kids, you can talk to them about what to expect to ease the unexpected.”

Bedford Hills mother Jennifer Wege starts putting schedules back in place about a week before school with schoolwork, reading and proper bedtimes. While her twins — Mount Kisco Elementary School fifth graders initially resist, “they get upset but are grateful when school starts,” Wege said.

Managing back-to-school anxiety

Anxiety about starting a new grade is completely normal, Buetti-Sgouros said. The key is removing unknowns whenever possible. “Taking a trial bus ride or visiting the new classroom can work wonders,” she said. “Everything is easier with a companion, so consider making this a group activity with your child’s friends.”

Jeannine Soldano, mother of a Bedford Hills Elementary School third grader, finds attending all orientations incredibly helpful. “You meet a lot of other parents and kids who were on his bus, so right away he knew other kids who were nervous and they were in the same class,” she said.

Soldano keeps school as part of regular conversation throughout the summer, reminding her son that “summer is just a little break” while incorporating worksheets and educational activities. 

“Take a breath and remember that you all will get through it,” Wege said. “It will feel big, and it is, but it is magical for everyone to watch them grow.”

Age-specific considerations

Elementary school represents the biggest adjustment for children new to formal school, but Buetti-Sgouros noted that “once the novelty has worn off, most kids thrive.”

Middle school presents unique challenges, a time which Buetti-Sgouros jokingly calls “puberty prison.” The combination of physical changes, moving between classes and using lockers creates potential for students to feel lost. “Most middle schools will allow kids to visit to take some of the unfamiliarity away,” she said. “Reminding kids to show respect to their peers helps.”

High school should be viewed as “a new beginning,” Buetti-Sgouros said. “Encouraging skills that provide balance of academic and social activities is imperative” as new independence can become overwhelming.

The nutrition connection

What children eat significantly impacts their school performance and behavior, said Jennifer Derfel, a Pound Ridge mom and registered dietitian. Coming off summer’s relaxed eating patterns requires intentional adjustment.

“Pairing protein with a complex carbohydrate will keep them from crashing mid-morning,” Derfel said. Simple options include whole grain waffles with peanut butter or yogurt with half a banana. For lunch, she suggested involving children in meal planning. “When kids have autonomy to choose what’s going in their lunch box” within reasonable boundaries,  “they’re more invested in eating it.”

The after-school period presents a crucial opportunity. “When kids come home from school, they are so hungry,” Derfel said. “Use that time to get quality food in” with substantial snacks like turkey sandwiches or apple slices with peanut butter.

Practical parent wisdom

Organization is essential, Norr said. She recommends using digital or paper calendars, reaching out to teachers and participating in back-to-school events. “There are so many events and dates to remember,” Norr said. “It is also important to embrace the change.”

Mount Kisco dad Mike Soldano focuses on morning preparation: “You just have to be ready yourself, and if you’re ready and getting up early enough, they’ll take your cues.”

Adam Thompson from Bedford Hills suggests getting children involved in home improvement projects and gardening. “Something with a tangible goal that will allow your child to see the results of hard work. Make it fun and reward them at the end,” he said. This prepares children for school projects and goals while building confidence. “Encourage them that they have what it takes to meet this new challenge, and you’ll be there for them no matter what.”

When to seek professional help

While some anxiety is normal, Buetti-Sgouros outlined warning signs that warrant professional intervention. These include significant mood changes lasting more than two weeks, difficulty concentrating, sleep pattern changes, unexplained physical complaints, mentions of self-harm or avoiding social situations and school.

“Early intervention is key to helping children develop healthy coping mechanisms,” the doctor said. Parents should start by consulting their pediatrician.

The back-to-school transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming. “The anxiety-excitement-overwhelm is normal,” Norr reminded parents. With gradual adjustments, open communication, proper nutrition and realistic expectations, families can navigate this annual milestone successfully.

Read more stories like this in the e-edition of our special Back to School section. Click here.