Transitioning Back To School

A fresh start. A new adventure. You’ve got this!

Going back to school—whether it's after summer, winter break, or even just a long weekend—can bring a mix of feelings. You might be excited, nervous, tired, or even a little unsure. That’s okay! This page will help you feel more prepared and confident to start the school year strong.

🌟 Tips & Tricks for a Smooth Transition

✅ Pack your backpack the night before
🛌 Go to bed early (your brain needs sleep!)
🍎 Eat breakfast—fuel for your brain
📅 Use a daily schedule or checklist
🎯 Set one small goal for your first week
🗣️ Talk to a grown-up if you’re feeling nervous
🧘‍♂️ Use calming strategies like deep breathing or positive self-talk
👫 Say hello to someone new—they might be nervous too!

🌈 How Are You Feeling About Going Back to School?

It’s normal to feel:

Excited 😄
Nervous 😬
Sad 😢
Tired 😴
Happy 😊
A mix of ALL the above!

👉 Use your Zones of Regulation to check in with yourself:

Zone : Blue

Feeling : Tired, sad, bored

Back-to-School Tips : Get rest, talk to someone, bring a comfort item

Zone : Green

Feeling : Calm, ready, happy

Back-to-School Tips : Great time to meet new friends and enjoy learning

Zone : Yellow

Feeling : Worried, wiggly, unsure

Back-to-School Tips : Take deep breaths, ask questions, use a checklist

Zone : Red

Feeling : Angry, overwhelmed

Back-to-School Tips : Ask for a break, talk to a trusted adult

📚 Books for Back-to-School Feelings

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn
First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
Our Class Is a Family by Shannon Olsen
A Little Spot of Anxiety by Diane Alber
Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
School’s First Day of School by Adam Rex

🧠 Leader in Me Habits for Back to School

Use these 7 Habits to start the year like a leader:

Habit 1: Be Proactive
“I am in charge of my attitude and actions.”
You can choose to show up ready to try!
Habit 2: Begin With the End in Mind
“What kind of student/friend do I want to be this year?”
Habit 3: Put First Things First
Focus on what matters: kindness, effort, learning, and teamwork.
Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood
Listen to others and ask questions if you're confused.
Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw
Balance your time with work, rest, and fun. Self-care helps your brain grow!

🖐 Activities You Can Do to Prepare

Draw a picture of your first day outfit or lunch
Write a letter to your future self
“What are you excited or nervous about?”
Create a Feelings Thermometer or Zones Check-In Chart
Practice your morning routine at home
Make a “Get Ready Checklist” for your backpack or room
Design a “Friendship Tag” with things about yourself to share
Decorate a paper heart and write what makes you brave

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