The back-to-school season is an exciting yet hectic time for families. As summer wanes and a new school year approaches, parents and loved ones play a crucial role in helping children transition smoothly. Research in child development and education shows that proactive parental support can boost students’ academic success and emotional well-being (Barger et al., 2019). This guide provides evidence-based tips for parenting students from preschool through high school and includes a special section for those sending a child off to college. By establishing healthy routines, staying constructively involved, nurturing your child’s confidence, and encouraging age-appropriate independence, you can set the stage for a positive and productive school year.

Establish Consistent Routines for Success
One of the most essential steps in back-to-school preparation is re-establishing household routines. Predictable daily patterns help children feel secure and develop self-regulation skills, which are the building blocks of academic achievement and good mental health (Swann-Quinn, 2023). As summer’s relaxed schedule gives way to early school mornings, start adjusting routines at least a week or two before school begins. Gradually shift bedtimes and wake-up times earlier to align with the school schedule. Sufficient sleep is critical: the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 9–12 hours for elementary-aged children and 8–10 hours for teens, yet many students fall short (Making Caring Common, 2023).

Prioritizing bedtime routines, such as quiet reading, dim lighting, and no screens before bed, improves rest and readiness for learning. Consistent morning, after-school, and bedtime routines reduce chaos and provide a comforting sense of structure, easing anxiety during transitions (Swann-Quinn, 2023). Developmental psychology research confirms that regular routines are associated with improved self-discipline, healthier sleep, and better social skills in children (Milevsky et al., 2011).

Stay Involved in Your Child’s Education (the Right Way)
Constructive parental involvement correlates with higher achievement, better attendance, and more positive attitudes toward school (Barger et al., 2019). For younger children, this might mean meeting teachers, volunteering, and reading together. For older students, it includes attending back-to-school nights, monitoring academic progress, and encouraging effective study habits. These at-home conversations have been linked to improved motivation and engagement (Barger et al., 2019).

However, the nature of involvement matters. Excessive direct help with homework, particularly in later grades, can reduce academic gains and increase friction (Barger et al., 2019). Instead, provide structure and resources while allowing your child to problem-solve independently. Communicate regularly with teachers, stay informed about curriculum and policies, and model respect and teamwork in school–home interactions.

Support Your Child’s Emotional Well-Being
A new school year often brings excitement and anxiety. Children adapt better when their feelings are acknowledged and validated (Kenny, 1987). Create space for open dialogue, and respond with empathy before offering solutions. Preparing together, visiting classrooms, organizing supplies, or role-playing social situations can ease first-day jitters.

Monitor ongoing well-being by noting changes in mood, sleep, or appetite. Persistent distress may require consultation with school counselors or healthcare providers. Encouraging healthy coping strategies, such as physical activity, downtime, and creative play, supports resilience (Compas et al., 2017).

Encourage Age-Appropriate Independence and Responsibility
Gradually increasing responsibility fosters confidence and self-reliance. Young children can manage simple tasks like organizing school materials, while adolescents should take the lead in tracking assignments, communicating with teachers, and managing schedules. An autonomy-supportive approach, guiding while allowing choice, is linked to higher motivation and self-esteem than over-controlling parenting (Kouros et al., 2017).

Natural consequences, such as a lower grade for a missed deadline, can be powerful learning opportunities. Support your child in problem-solving, but resist taking over tasks they can handle themselves.

Supporting College Students During the Back-to-School Season
For parents sending a child to college, the early weeks are a critical adjustment period. Research consistently shows that a strong sense of belonging, engagement in campus life, and access to support services are linked to higher persistence and well-being, especially for first-generation students (Henlon, 2025; Stebleton et al., 2014; Strayhorn, 2019). Encourage your student to attend welcome events, join at least one club or organization, and connect with peers through informal gatherings or study groups. Even modest involvement can help them feel anchored in the new environment.

Loved ones can also play a role in making sure their student knows how to access basic needs resources such as campus food pantries, counseling services, and academic success centers. Many students, particularly those living away from home for the first time, do not immediately seek help when they need it. A quick conversation before move-in about where to find these services can reduce barriers later.

Finally, avoid comparing your student’s adjustment to that of others. Some students take weeks or months to find their rhythm, and that’s normal. The best gift you can give is reassurance, encouragement to stay engaged, and confidence in their ability to navigate challenges independently. When students know their families believe in their resilience, they are more likely to persist through early setbacks and develop the independence needed for success.

About the Author

Dr. Jessica Henlon is an Educational Psychologist, researcher, and purpose-driven leader with over 26 years of experience in student development, community engagement, and talent cultivation. She is passionate about designing inclusive programs and scalable systems that foster belonging and success. Through Dr. Jessica Henlon, Consulting Co., she partners with schools, universities, and organizations to develop strategies that help individuals and institutions thrive. To learn more or inquire about consulting and speaking opportunities, visit www.jessicahenlon.com.

References

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Compas, B. E., Jaser, S. S., Bettis, A. H., Watson, K. H., Gruhn, M. A., Dunbar, J. P., Williams, E., & Thigpen, J. C. (2017). Coping, emotion regulation, and psychopathology in childhood and adolescence: A meta-analysis and narrative review. Psychological Bulletin, 143(9), 939–991. https://doi.org/10.1037/bul0000110

Cutrona, C. E., Cole, V., Colangelo, N., Assouline, S. G., & Russell, D. W. (1994). Perceived parental social support and academic achievement: An attachment theory perspective. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 66(2), 369–378. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.66.2.369

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Kouros, C. D., Pruitt, M. M., Ekas, N. V., Kiriaki, R., & Sunderland, M. (2017). Helicopter parenting, autonomy support, and college students’ mental health and well-being: The moderating role of sex and ethnicity. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 26(3), 939–949. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-016-0614-3

Making Caring Common Project. (2024, August 6). Preparing for back-to-school at every age. Harvard Graduate School of Education.  https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu/whats-new/3-tips-new-school-year

Milevsky, A., Schlechter, M., Netter, S., & Keehn, D. (2011). Maternal and paternal parenting styles in adolescents: Associations with self-esteem, depression and life-satisfaction. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 16(1), 39–47. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-006-9066-5

Stebleton, M. J., Soria, K. M., & Huesman, R. L., Jr. (2014). First-generation students’ sense of belonging, mental health, and use of counseling services at public research universities. Journal of College Counseling, 17(1), 6–20. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2161-1882.2014.00044.x

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Swann-Quinn, C. (2023, August 28). Back-to-school: How to help your child adjust. Child Mind Institute. https://childmind.org/article/helping-children-with-special-needs-go-back-to-school/