OR return to schools It marks a period of intense transition for children and parents: from the care of the holiday to the new school reality, from the beaches and flip flops, to school desks and notebooks, from the freedom of summer to the routine of daily obligations. THE September It is the month that marks the change, with the “first bell” and the alarm clocks giving the pace again. This transition, as the evolutionary and school psychologist Dr. Irene Anagnostou-Kefepouris points out, must be done by methodical, as it resembles a small “landing” in everyday life and requires proper preparation.

The expert points out that the Return to school It takes triple preparation: practical, psychological and emotional. As typically states, ‘Child anxiety often reflects the attitude of parents’. The positive disposition of adults acts as a guarantee of safety and confidence for children at the start of the new school year.

Little students and large changes in routine

For elementary school students, the regulation of everyday life is perhaps the biggest challenge of September. Returning to a fixed sleep and meal program, the organization of the school bag and coexistence with the day’s obligations require cooperation. One practical advice is to do school shopping together, giving children a sense of participation and cultivating positive expectations for the new year. At the same time, open discussion and highlighting the positives of the school can reduce concerns: “Remind them of the friendships they will see again, talk about the beautiful moments waiting for them”. The expert also emphasizes the importance of disconnecting from screens early in the evening, suggesting quiet family moments before bedtime.

Teenagers and the role of autonomy

The transition is different for teenagers. As Dr. Anagnostou-Keplers explains, teenagers claim their independence, but have a need for guidance at the same time. Parents are called upon to find a balance between support and freedom, creating space for dialogue without “sermons”, encouraging realistic planning and helping to manage time between courses, extracurricular activities, social relationships and digital presence. The key, as the expert notes, is located in dialogue and not in bans.

Learning Difficulties – Need for Special Preparation

For children facing learning disabilities Or they have special needs, preparation for school is necessary and not luxury. Communication of parents with teachers before the start of the courses and a possible visit with the child in the school space help to reduce stress and form a smooth start.

The school as a second home

Returning to school classes is much more than an administrative act: the school is second house For every child. As Dr. Anagnostou-Keplearis notes, the role of parents and teachers is to create an environment of safety, care and support together, where students not only learn, but also grow confident. September, the expert concludes, “It’s not the end of summer, but the starting point of a new, exciting journey”. Good preparation and enthusiasm are the secrets to turning the return to schools into a very promising new beginning.