Balancing Back-to-School Big Feelings
When the School Year Starts, So Do the Big Feelings
The alarm clock rings earlier. The backpack feels heavier. And in the pit of their stomach, your child feels that mix of excitement and nervous butterflies that only the first weeks of school can bring.
Some kids can’t wait to see friends, meet their teacher, and dive into new subjects. Others feel a wave of anxiety at the thought of unfamiliar routines, harder assignments, or changing friendships.
As parents, we long to protect them from every discomfort. But God often uses these very moments to grow our children’s courage—and our own faith.
Acknowledge, Don’t Rescue
When we see our kids struggling, it’s tempting to step in and make the hard feelings disappear. But if we continuously remove their discomfort, they can grow dependent on us to erase every fear—and that can deepen anxiety over time.
Instead, show empathy while encouraging them to face challenges. You might say:
“I know you’re nervous, and that’s okay. I’m here, and I’ll help you get through this.”
Over time, your child will discover they can face new situations with God’s help. James reminds us, “the testing of your faith produces steadfastness” (James 1:2–4). That’s true for our children—and us.
Use Stories to Connect
We all long for connection, and many of the best moments happen through the sharing of stories. Make it a habit to talk about your child’s day—not just the highlights, but the hard parts too.
When they share a tough moment, bear their burden with compassion. When they share a win, celebrate with joy. As Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
Here are some questions to get the conversation flowing:
What was the best part of your day? The hardest?
Who in your class can we pray for tonight?
What was the kindest thing you did for someone today?
What’s one thing that made you laugh?
Partner with Teachers
Parents don’t always see what their kids face at school, but teachers witness daily academic and social moments that shape their year. View teachers as allies and ask open-ended questions such as:
How is my child doing socially and academically?
Is there anything I can help with at home?
Have you noticed any changes in their friendships or mood?
When parents and teachers work together, children feel supported from both sides.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Start
Create a daily check-in routine to talk about feelings.
Stay calm and positive—kids sense our energy.
Pray for and with your child, trusting God’s plans for their school year.
Release unrealistic expectations—growth often comes through setbacks.
Prioritize rest and nutrition—sleep and breakfast matter.
Avoid over-fixing—sometimes listening is more powerful than solving.
Talk about friendships—encourage Respectful, Encouraging, Accepting, Loving (REAL) relationships.
Seek guidance—if struggles become extreme, reach out to a teacher or principal.
Lean on God’s Grace
Parenting is a gradual process of letting go as our children mature. We can’t be with them every moment, but God can—and His presence is far better than ours.
“God makes all grace abound, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
As the school year unfolds, remember: your child’s challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities—for them to grow in courage and for you to grow in trust. God is in the classroom, the lunchroom, and the quiet moments after the final bell.
And His grace will meet you—and your child—every step of the way.
