Supporting Kids’ Mental Health as Summer Ends and They Return to School
As summer winds down in Louisiana, many families are preparing for the transition back to school. For children, this can bring a mix of excitement, stress, and even anxiety. At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, we understand that these transitions can be overwhelming—not just for kids, but for parents too. Supporting children’s mental health during this time is one of the most important ways to set them up for a positive and successful school year.
The Back-to-School Stressors Kids Face
Children often face challenges such as adjusting to new routines, meeting new teachers, reconnecting with peers, and managing increased academic expectations. For some, worries about fitting in socially or handling extracurricular activities can add additional pressure. These feelings are normal, but without support, they may build into anxiety, irritability, or withdrawal.
How Parents Can Help
As a parent or caregiver, you play a key role in supporting your child’s emotional well-being.
Consider these strategies:
Validate their feelings: Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous, excited, or unsure. Acknowledging emotions helps kids feel understood.
Re-establish routines early: Start easing back into school sleep schedules, meal times, and daily structures before the first day. Consistency creates a sense of safety.
Encourage open conversations: Ask open-ended questions about what your child is looking forward to and what they may be worried about.
Model healthy coping: Show your child that it’s okay to take breaks, practice mindfulness, or ask for help when overwhelmed.
Mindfulness as a Back-to-School Tool
At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, we often teach mindfulness practices that can help children manage transitions. Simple techniques—like pausing for three deep breaths before school, or noticing five things around them when they feel worried—help kids stay grounded and present. Practicing mindfulness together as a family not only reduces stress but also builds connection.
Our practice also specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which teaches concrete skills that are especially helpful during times of change.
For example:
Distress tolerance skills can help children manage overwhelming moments at school.
Emotion regulation skills give kids tools to identify and cope with strong feelings before they escalate.
Interpersonal effectiveness skills help teens communicate more clearly and build healthier peer relationships.
These skills don’t just support academic success—they strengthen resilience and emotional intelligence for life.
When Extra Support is Needed
Even with strong family support, some children may continue to struggle with anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges. This is where therapy can provide meaningful help. At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, we work with children, teens, and families to build coping skills, process emotions, and create healthier patterns that allow kids to thrive in and out of school.
A New School Year, A Fresh Start
The end of summer is more than just the close of a season—it’s the start of new opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. With the right tools and support, children can face the school year with confidence and resilience. If your family is navigating these transitions and would like guidance, know that you don’t have to do it alone.
At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, we’re here to walk alongside families across Louisiana, offering mindfulness, DBT, and compassionate care tailored to your child’s needs. Together, we can help your child build the skills to flourish this school year and beyond.