Returning to school is challenging for all students, but particularly for those with learning differences such as ADHD and dyslexia. A new school year brings fresh routines, new friendships, and unfamiliar challenges — all of which require time and support to navigate. While some children leap out of bed eager for the day ahead, others feel butterflies in their stomachs, needing extra reassurance before stepping into the classroom. Both responses — and everything in between — are completely normal.
A new school year brings fresh routines, new friendships, and unfamiliar challenges. While these changes can inspire growth, they can also lead to moments of dysregulation, where a child’s emotional or behavioral responses feel “bigger” than the situation. This is especially common for students with learning differences, who may need additional time and strategies to adapt to change. Recognizing and supporting children through these moments is critical — and something we specialize in at Currey Ingram Academy, a global leader in education for students with learning differences.
The way a school year begins can shape a child’s confidence, academic performance, and social relationships (Feinberg & Cowan, 2004). That’s why we are intentional about guiding students — including those with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences — through this adjustment period. Parents play a vital role, too.
How Parents Can Support Their Child’s Transition
Validate their feelings. Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous or unsure. Phrases like, “It’s normal to have butterflies before something new” help normalize their experience.
Practice routines. A predictable bedtime, calm morning, and preview of the day can create a sense of safety. Lay out clothes and pack bags the night before to reduce stress — particularly helpful for students with ADHD who benefit from structure.
Stay positive. Enthusiasm is contagious. Share your own positive school memories or highlight something exciting on the horizon. For children with dyslexia or other learning differences, focusing on strengths and upcoming opportunities builds confidence.
Keep goodbyes short and confident. Your calm, positive send-off helps your child feel secure and ready to learn.
Be available. Set aside time to talk about your child’s day. Ask open-ended questions about specific activities (“What did you make in art class today?”) to encourage conversation and self-expression.
Build stamina gradually. School days — even in small, supportive settings — can be taxing. Quiet time, earlier bedtimes, and outdoor play after school help restore balance for all students, especially those managing attention challenges.
Re-establish mealtime routines. Use dinner as an opportunity to reconnect and debrief the day.
At Currey Ingram, we work in partnership with families to ensure every child feels supported, regulated, and ready to thrive. During the first weeks of school, teachers intentionally teach and practice rules, develop predictable routines, and foster social connections to help students feel safe and confident.
Transitions are rarely seamless — but with patience, structure, and encouragement, children learn to navigate change successfully. By validating feelings, modeling optimism, and building supportive routines, you can help your child embrace the new school year with resilience and joy.
