As the summer holidays come to an end, we know that returning to school can be a source of anxiety for some pupils — especially those who find change and transition challenging.

At Forge Valley, we’re here to support every pupil. If your child is feeling worried about the new school year, here are a few ways you can support:

🧠 Tips to Support Your Child:

• Talk openly: Give your child space to share how they’re feeling without pressure or judgment.
• Re-establish routines: Gradually bring back school-day routines like bedtime and wake-up times to ease the transition.
• Practice the journey: If possible, do a dry run of the journey to school to help build confidence.
• Focus on positives: Talk about things they enjoy at school — friends, favourite subjects, clubs — to shift focus from fear to excitement.
• Visit our website: Familiarising your child with key information (timetables, uniform, etc.) can reduce uncertainty.
• Use calming techniques: Breathing exercises, grounding strategies, and “worry boxes” can help children manage anxious thoughts.

📚 Helpful Resources:

• YoungMinds Parent Guide to School Anxiety & Refusal
• NHS Advice on Anxiety in Children
• Mentally Healthy Schools – Supporting a Child with Anxiety

Let’s work together to make the start of the new school year a positive experience for every child.