September brings stress not just for children, but for parents too
Experts say the start of the school year can be psychologically draining for parents as well, and recommend they first manage their own emotional balance to help children feel calmer.
The start of a new school year is usually associated with children's anxiety, but psychologists point out that September's changes weigh heavily on parents too. The sudden need to adjust the whole family's rhythm — wake-up times, school schedules, homework and extracurricular activities — creates both practical and emotional strain.
Why parents struggle
The American Psychological Association notes that returning to a school routine requires reconciling the demanding schedules of both children and adults, testing the whole family's ability to adapt. There is also an invisible burden — constant planning and remembering countless daily details, which keeps the mind occupied even when nothing unusual is happening. The period can be especially emotional for parents whose child is starting kindergarten or school for the first time.
What experts recommend
The Child Mind Institute stresses that parents should first assess their own stress levels, since children notice adult anxiety and use it to judge how dangerous a new situation might be. It's also advised not to overload the family schedule with new commitments in the first weeks — better to treat this time as an adjustment period and accept that things won't be perfect.
Both the APA and HealthyChildren.org recommend restoring a regular sleep routine and preparing needed items the night before, which eases mornings for parents as well. Psychology Today encourages parents not to try to solve every one of their child's problems, allowing children to learn to handle difficulties themselves, and to acknowledge a child's feelings rather than dismiss them.
It's also important for parents to set aside time for themselves, such as a walk or a quiet moment, rather than treating rest as something earned only after every task is done. If anxiety or low mood persists and interferes with daily functioning — for either parent or child — experts recommend seeking professional help. September is described as a transition period in which both children and parents need time to adjust to the new rhythm.
