The start of a new school year brings excitement, but also big emotions. For many children, especially those who have experienced trauma or disruption, returning to the classroom can be both overwhelming and challenging. As caregivers, foster parents and advocates, there’s a lot we can do to ease the transition and set kids up for success.
Whether you’re helping your child prepare for their very first day or supporting a youth who’s experienced multiple school changes, here are a few simple ways to make the back-to-school season more manageable.
- Start with Structure: Establishing a consistent routine is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety. In the weeks leading up to the first day, begin shifting sleep and meal times to match the school schedule. Set out clothes the night before, review the day’s plan each morning and post a visual calendar if helpful. For children in foster care, structure provides predictability, and predictability builds trust.
- Talk Openly About Feelings: Kids may not always have the words to express their worries, so it’s important to check in. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure, and that they’re not alone. You might also consider sharing your own school experiences to help normalize their feelings. Keep the conversation open-ended and age-appropriate.
- Meet the Teacher & Tour the School: Whenever possible, attend back-to-school events or schedule a tour before classes begin. Meeting teachers, seeing the classroom and finding their desk or locker can help children feel more comfortable. This is especially important for children in the foster care system, who may be adjusting to new environments more frequently than their peers.
- Communicate with School Staff: If your child is in foster care, it’s a good idea to communicate with the school about any specific needs, potential triggers or helpful strategies. Teachers and counselors can be key allies in providing extra support and ensuring the student feels safe and understood.
- Celebrate the Milestones: Start-of-school traditions like first-day photos, special breakfasts or back-to-school shopping can give children something to look forward to. These simple celebrations reinforce the idea that school is important and that they are supported. Whether you’re a relative caregiver, foster family or planning to become a foster care parent, small acts of encouragement make a big difference.
Supporting Foster Families All Year Long
At TFI, we’re here to walk alongside you—not just during big transitions, but every step of the way. From foster care classes to ongoing support, our team is committed to helping you and your family thrive. If you’re ready to become a foster parent or want to learn more about foster care and adoption, we’re just a phone call away.