Back to School:Without Tears or Tantrums !

Crying at the gate, with the teacher taking your little one to school?

Screaming on the way as a means of protest against going to school?

Crying so much that they fall ill?

Not eating at school because they’re angry/uncomfortable/sad?

Sounds familiar? As schools reopen soon, these memories of April-May are starting to come back to those tired parents who now know that schools are going to be the routine again. However, if you are also dreading to send your little one to school, fearing the tears and the tantrums, the 5 step guide is just for you!

1. Reset Sleep & Wake Times – Start This Week

With July 1 just around the corner, move bedtime earlier by 15 minutes every night. The goal is to help your child get 8-12 hours of sleep and wake up closer to school time without grogginess. Having a good sleep pattern will help improve the mood in the morning as well. Also, a well rested child is likely to listen more.

little boy sitting in bed at home in the morning on a window background with alarm clock

2. Bring Back Structured Mornings & Mealtimes

Even if there is no school yet, restart the school time morning routine: wake up, brush teeth, change clothes, eat breakfast, and pack a pretend bag/start your day. Have breakfast and lunch around the same time (preferably as the school) so their body clock gets used to the school rhythm. For the eager ones you can even use a routine chart, or a timer for the ‘easily bored’ ones!

Loving mother and schoolgirl with backpack before first day

3. Practice “School Mode” at Home

Set up 30–45 minutes of “school-like” activities daily: time with books, puzzles, art, or even pretend classroom play amongst siblings. Even a simple desk or corner with supplies helps create readiness for children. Revisit the school building or drive by, so it feels familiar again. Talk about the teacher they like, friends, or favorite activities to bank some positive memories.

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4. Reduce Screen Time, Increase Face Time

Start tapering down on screens and introduce more face-to-face play. Set up a small playdate with a school friend if possible, or visit the park where classmates may be around. If your child is anxious, acknowledge their feelings and talk to them about what to expect/who to meet/what to do on Day 1. It also helps if you teach them help seeking behaviors.

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5. Create Simple Morning & Night Rituals

Bedtime routines bring emotional security—use storybooks, cuddles, or (best/worst part of the day). To ease the chaos or negotiations during mornings, prepare together the night before—let your child choose their outfits (from the options you give), pack bags, and other things that are a morning ritual for your family . Rituals make transitions memorable, not stressful.

Remember, consistency is key. The first few school days don’t need to be perfect—just loving, consistent, and calm. Your energy will set the tone, try to create a stress free environment for you and your home.

Tried all this and your child is not able to settle in school? Let’s discuss more, here.