How Returning to School Can Impact Young People

It’s that time of year when many young people return to school. For some, it is the start of their first school experience, and for others it can be going to a new school or heading off to college.

I thought those of you with children heading back to school might find the information my research uncovered to be helpful.

According to the CDC:

• The number of adolescents reporting poor mental health is increasing.
• Building strong bonds and connecting to youth can protect their mental health.
• School staff and families can create protective relationships with students and help them grow into healthy adults.

CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2013–2023 highlights concerning trends about the mental health of U.S. high school students.

In 2023, CDC found that:

• 4 in 10 (40%) students had persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
• 2 in 10 (20%) students seriously considered attempting suicide and nearly 1 in 10 (9%) attempted suicide.

These data bring into focus the level of distress many students are experiencing.

Back-to-School Tips for Families

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on School Health:

Make the first day of school easier for kids.

• Take your child to visit the new school or classroom before the first day of school.  
• Point out the fun aspects of school starting to help your child look forward to the first day of class. Talk about how they will see old friends and meet new ones, for example.
• Find another child in the neighborhood your child can walk to school or ride with on the bus. If you feel it is needed, drive your child (or walk with them) to school and pick them up on the first day. Get there early on the first day to cut down on unnecessary stress.

Develop a healthy sleep routine.

• Help your child adjust to earlier bedtimes a week or two before the new school year starts, just to help them ease into new routines.
• Create a bedtime routine that is consistent to help your child settle down and fall asleep.  
• Have your child turn off electronic devices well before bedtime. 
• Children who eat a nutritious breakfast function better.

 (American Academy of Pediatrics Council on School Health, Copyright © 2023​)

Preparing young people for a successful start to school is a gift parents can give those young people.

Invitation for Reflection

1. Did this information help you be better prepared to support the young people in your life who are heading to school?
2. What specifically will you do?
3. Who do you know who might benefit from receiving this information?

Diane Wagenhals

Director Emeritus, Lakeside Global Institute