How to Ease First Day of School Nerves: Tips for Parents and Kids

Ah, the first day of school — just thinking about it can bring back a swirl of emotions, can’t it? The tiny backpack that looks too big on their little shoulders, the proud but worried smiles, the butterflies in everyone’s stomach (not just the kids’!). Janet here, and today I want to wrap you in a big virtual hug and remind you: nerves are normal.

I was actually very lucky when it came to my own children. They were excited about starting school, and when the big day arrived, they walked right in with their classmates without so much as a backward glance. I remember standing there, a little stunned, watching them disappear into a sea of little backpacks and bright-eyed energy. Honestly, I think my feelings were more bruised than theirs! I had prepared myself for tears or clinging hugs — maybe even a last-minute change of heart — but instead, they were off and running, eager for the adventure. I stood there smiling, but inside, I felt a little emotional. It’s funny how we expect them to need us in those moments, and sometimes they surprise us by being more ready than we are. I also remember seeing other parents who weren't quite as lucky that morning. Some children were crying, holding tight to their parents' legs, not ready to let go. My heart went out to them. It was such a reminder that every child (and parent!) handles those transitions differently — and that’s completely okay. Whether your child walks in without looking back or needs a few extra hugs before letting go, both reactions are part of the beautiful, sometimes bittersweet journey of growing up.

So, from one parent and grandparent to another, here are some gentle, practical tips to help ease those first-day jitters — for both you and your child.

🌞 1️⃣ Practice the First Day of School Morning Routine

A few days before school starts, do a couple of practice runs. Set the alarm, get dressed, have breakfast, and even walk or drive to the school if you can. This isn’t about drilling them like a boot camp — it’s about creating a sense of familiarity and flow so the real morning feels less rushed and more relaxed.

You can make it fun! Play some cheerful music, do a little “high-five” when they’re ready on time, or let them pick a special breakfast for the first day. When kids know what to expect, the unknown feels less scary.

🏫 2️⃣ Do a Little “School Tour”

If your school offers an open house or meet-the-teacher day, take advantage of it. Walk the hallways, show them where the bathroom is, where their cubby or locker will be, and maybe even peek into the classroom. If that’s not possible, drive by the school or look at pictures online together.

At home, you can play “school” with stuffed animals — let your child be the teacher giving a tour. It’s a playful way to turn nerves into curiosity.

📚 3️⃣ Read Books About School Together

There’s something magical about books that help kids process big feelings. A few of my favorites are:

• The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

• First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg

• Charlie's First Day of School by JB Lyght

These stories open up gentle conversations. After reading, ask, “Do you ever feel like Charlie?” or “What would your kissing hand look like?” You’ll be surprised at what they’re ready to share when they hear it’s okay to talk about worries.

🎨 4️⃣ Make a Special First-Day Keepsake

Mark this big milestone with something sweet!

• Take a first-day photo with a homemade sign.

• Make a “First-Day Handprint” or drawing to remember how little they were.

• Clip a small charm or token to their backpack — something simple like a ribbon, a button, or a keychain they helped pick out.

  
  

These little touches turn anxiety into celebration and give your child something to hold onto throughout the day.

💛 5️⃣ Encourage Yourself as a Parent

Here’s the part no one says enough: it’s okay if you feel nervous too.

It’s okay if your child clings, cries, or says they don’t want you to leave. It’s okay if you sit in your car afterward and take a deep breath (or even shed a few tears yourself!). This is all part of growing up — for both of you.

Remember, kids pick up on our energy. If you stay calm, offer a warm but confident goodbye, and show trust in their teachers, your child will feel safer to settle in. Remind yourself: you’ve prepared them well, and they are braver than they feel right now.

🌟 Bonus Idea: A Goodbye Ritual or Checklist

I love the idea of creating a simple goodbye ritual — maybe a special handshake, a phrase like “Be brave, be you!”, or a kiss on each palm (like in The Kissing Hand). This small routine can become an anchor on big mornings.

I also have a free printable “Morning Checklist” on my website you can download!

You can stick it on the fridge to help mornings run smoother (laminate if you can) — and to remind yourself that you’ve got this.

🌼 Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Dear parent, caregiver, or grandparent — this is a big step, but it’s also a beautiful one. You are helping your child learn to step into the world with courage and wonder. Yes, there will be wobbles. Yes, there may be tears. But there will also be laughter, stories, new friends, and that amazing moment when they come running home to tell you about their day.

Give yourself grace, give them grace, and remember: a confident start isn’t about being fearless — it’s about showing up together, nerves and all.

If you’d like, hop over to my site to grab that Morning Checklist or read more tips and stories. And if you’ve got a special goodbye ritual or first-day story, I’d love to hear it — drop me a note! 💌 Let’s remind each other: we’re all in this together. 💛

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