Back to school | Here's how you can reset to start this new school year with success

August 22, 2026 - 02:32

Summer is winding down, and families are trading lazy mornings for alarm clocks and packed lunches. After weeks of pool days, sleepovers, and relaxed routines, the shift back to school can feel jarring for kids and parents alike. But it doesn't have to be a stressful scramble. Monica Carrillo, a lifelong educator, parenting coach, and mother of two, says the key is to treat this transition as a deliberate reset rather than a sudden jolt.

Carrillo suggests starting small, well before the first bell rings. Instead of trying to fix bedtime the night before school starts, she recommends moving wake-up times and bedtimes by fifteen-minute increments over the course of a week. This gradual shift helps reset a child's internal clock without the shock of a Monday morning alarm. She also emphasizes the importance of re-establishing routines around meals and screen time, creating a predictable rhythm that makes the school day feel less chaotic.

Beyond logistics, Carrillo encourages parents to have open conversations about feelings. Kids might be excited, nervous, or even sad that summer is over. Acknowledging those emotions without judgment helps children feel supported. She also advises parents to model a positive attitude. If you talk about the new year with enthusiasm, focusing on new friends, interesting subjects, and fun activities, your child will likely mirror that outlook. Finally, she reminds parents to be patient. The first few weeks are an adjustment for everyone, and a little grace goes a long way in setting the tone for a successful and happy school year.