""The only constant in life is change" (Heraclitus, circa 500 BCE). As winter break comes to an end, this truth feels especially close to home. I feel like just yesterday, I was helping my children adjust to a new school year, and now we are once again preparing to transition to different routines, expectations, and social worlds. I can already anticipate some big feelings; even if it's returning to a familiar place, it can still be unsettling."
"When routines shift, children may feel uncertain about what is expected of them, how they will feel, and whether they can trust others to help them manage what comes next. Children as young as five express worry about starting school because of uncertain teacher demands and dynamics with peers (Wong, 2015). For us parents, school might bring the relief of structure and routine, but for our children, it may bring a flood of emotions."
Children face frequent transitions that can prompt significant emotions even when returning to familiar settings. Uncertainty about expectations, feelings, and social dynamics often makes transitions difficult for young children. Manageable, supported stress can strengthen resilience rather than harm it. Simple, consistent family rituals and predictable caregiving provide emotional grounding and reduce uncertainty. Parental emotional and relational stability—being present, steady, and attuned—serves as the primary antidote to challenging transitions. Parents may find school routines reassuring, while children may experience worry; adults’ steady presence helps children navigate those conflicting experiences and big feelings.
Read at Psychology Today
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