As summer winds down and the first day of school approaches, both children and parents often feel a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Anxious feelings are normal during times of transition or change–and beginning a new school year is no exception.
Shifting from a slower summer schedule to a busier routine can be stressful and disruptive for the entire family, causing your child to be extra clingy or emotional.
It's not uncommon for kids to cry more often, have trouble sleeping, complain of headaches or stomach aches, or simply seem more irritable.
While you can’t eliminate the stress entirely, here are some tips to help start the school year on a positive note:
● Be reassuring. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and encourage open conversations with you (and their teachers) about any worries.
● Be positive. Starting a new school year can be fun! Point out the excitement of reuniting with old friends and meeting new ones. The first week of school offers a chance to learn about new things and pursue interests. Reinforce the fun and excitement of learning with your child!
● Be prepared. Ease into the school year by starting routines a week or two early. Have your child choose their outfits, encourage earlier bedtimes and wakeups, and allow time to eat a healthy breakfast. Plan ahead for lunches and gather all school supplies. Schools typically distribute lists of what is needed for each grade level during the summer. Need help with supplies? Local school districts, nonprofits, and PTAs often offer assistance.
● Be safe. Ensure a safe commute to and from school byreviewing basic walking or biking safety. Consider a buddy system—arrange for your child to go with a neighbor. Walk, bike, or drive the route together before the first day to make them feel more comfortable. Touring the school beforehand or walking their schedule helps to familiarize them with their surroundings.
● Be thorough. If your child requires medication or special needs support, ensure all paperwork has been submitted and school staff is aware. Once plans are set, explain to your child how their needs will be managed during the school day (what time to report to the office to take their medication, foods to avoid in the cafeteria for allergy safety, etc.).
● Be connected. If your child gets nervous about new social situations, set up playdates before school starts. For older children and teens, encourage them to attend any summer events or back-to-school functions so they can socialize with their peers.
● Be alert. What should they do if you are late picking them up, or if no one is at the house when they get home? What should your child do if they feel they’re being bullied? Talk it through! Having a plan in place reduces stress and the tendency to panic.
The first day of school for the Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District (PYLUSD), which includes both Yorba Linda and Anaheim Hills, is August 26, 2025.
Key Dates for the 2025-2026 School Year:
● First Day: August 26, 2025
● Non-Student Day: August 29, 2025
● Labor Day: September 1, 2025
● Veterans Day: November 11, 2025
● Thanksgiving: November 24-28, 2025
● Winter Break: December 22, 2025-January 2, 2026
● Martin Luther King Day: January 19, 2026
● Lincoln's Birthday: February 9, 2026
● President's Week: February 16, 2026
● Spring Break: April 6-10, 2026
● Memorial Day: May 25, 2026
● Last Day: June 11, 2026
“The first week of school offers a chance to learn about new things and pursue interests. Reinforce the fun and excitement of learning with your child!”