small school children with colorful school bags and backpacks run to school. Back to school, education, elementary school.

As families prepare for a new school year, it's important to remember that back-to-school can bring a mix of emotions. While many children are excited to return to the classroom, others may find the transition challenging after a summer without the regular routine, structure, and social connections that school provides.

For some children and youth, returning to school can feel overwhelming. Taking time to check in, listen, and have open conversations can help them feel supported and better prepared for the year ahead.

The back-to-school season is also a great opportunity to re-establish healthy routines, strengthen social connections, and identify any concerns that may benefit from additional support.

4 Tips to Support Your Child's Transition Back to School:

Gradually reintroducing consistent bedtimes, wake-up times, meal schedules, and limits on screen time can help reduce stress and make the transition smoother.

Open conversations can help children process their feelings about returning to school. Whether your child feels excited, nervous, frustrated, or uncertain, let them know their feelings are valid.

Strong friendships and social connections play an important role in overall well-being. For children who struggle socially, gentle encouragement and opportunities to practice social skills can be beneficial.

Returning to school is a big transition, and every child will respond differently. Be patient as they settle into new routines and watch for signs that may be a warning that they need help, such as changes in sleep, appetite, mood, or persistent headaches or stomach aches.

For additional back-to-school mental health resources and practical tools for families, visit the Children's Mental Health Ontario (CMHO) Parent and Caregiver Resources Page.

A big thank you to TimminsToday.com for being a media sponsor and highlighting our mental health tips and resources to help kids prepare for back-to-school. Check out their website to read our Spotlight article: "Back-to-school support starts with routine, conversation and connection"

Accessing Mental Health Support When You Need It

As a member of CMHO, North Eastern Ontario Family and Children's Services (NEOFACS) offers a range of free programs and services to support children, youth, and families experiencing mental health needs, crisis situations, or family challenges. As an integrated service provider, NEOFACS delivers Child and Youth Mental Health, Child Welfare, Youth Justice, Prevention, and Community-Based Programs and Services, helping ensure individuals across the Cochrane and Timiskaming Districts receive the right support, at the right time, close to home.

NEOFACS is also proud to be part of One Stop Talk (OST), a provincial initiative that provides children and youth aged 0 to 17 years with immediate access to free mental health support. The program provides single-session counselling support and ensures direct referral to additional local services when needed. To access support, visit onestoptalk.ca or call 1-855-416-TALK (8255).

There is no limit to the number of times the service can be accessed, and individuals currently waiting to access Counselling and Therapy Services through NEOFACS can also access One Stop Talk while maintaining their place on the waitlist.

You Are Not Alone. Help is Available.

Everyone experiences challenges from time to time. However, when difficulties begin to interfere with daily life, relationships, school success, sleep, or overall well-being, additional support may be needed.

If you know a child, youth, or family who may be struggling, encourage them to reach out for help. No concern is too small, and early support can make a meaningful difference. For children and youth aged 0 to 17 experiencing a mental health crisis, NEOFACS offers Child and Youth Mental Health Crisis Support outside of regular office hours, providing immediate help when it’s needed most.

If you are concerned about the well-being or safety of a child or youth, NEOFACS is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year by calling 705-360-7100 or toll-free at 1-866-229-KIDS (5437).

For additional mental health resources available province-wide for all ages, please visit the Government of Ontario’s mental health support directory.