I can’t believe kids are heading back to school this week! I can still remember it like it was yesterday—lying in bed the night before the first day of school, staring at the ceiling, too excited (and a little nervous) to sleep. The smell of freshly sharpened pencils, the sound of a brand-new zipper on a backpack, and the mystery of who my new teacher would be all kept my mind buzzing.

Years later, as a mom, I found myself on the other side—shopping for lunch boxes and backpacks, packing the first-day lunch, and giving extra-long hugs at drop-off. The truth is, a new school year is both exciting and nerve-wracking—for kids and parents.

Here are a few ways to help turn those first-day jitters into confidence:

Tips for Helping Kids Shake the First-Day Nerves

1. Talk About It Early Start conversations about school a few days beforehand—what they’re excited about, what they might be nervous about, and how to handle different situations.
2. Do a Practice Run Walk or drive the route to school, visit the playground, or even meet the teacher if possible. Familiarity eases anxiety.
3. Create a Comfort Ritual Slip a small note or drawing into their lunchbox, or agree on a special goodbye handshake. Small gestures create a sense of security.
4. Model Calm & Confidence Kids pick up on our energy. A positive, steady tone during the morning rush sets the mood for their day.

Ways Parents Can Empower Kids for the Year Ahead

1. Set a Routine Early Consistent bedtimes and wake-ups make mornings smoother and help kids start the day alert and ready to learn.
2. Encourage Problem-Solving Let them brainstorm solutions for small challenges (forgotten homework, playground disputes, etc.) so they build resilience.
3. Focus on Effort, Not Just Results Praise hard work, persistence, and curiosity—this encourages a growth mindset that will last far beyond one school year.
4. Stay Involved Without Hovering Check in regularly, attend school events when you can, and let your child know you’re always there to listen.

As we start this new school year, remember—our role as parents isn’t just to pack the lunchboxes and check the homework. It’s to help our kids see themselves as capable, confident, and ready to take on the challenges ahead. And sometimes, the most powerful lesson we can teach them is that it’s okay to feel nervous… and still step forward.

Here’s to a year of learning, growth, and maybe even a few sleepless nights of excitement.

XX,

MG