Helping Children Transition to School and Life Changes

At AdventHealth for Children, we care about every child’s whole health. And mental well-being matters when it comes to their overall health. We’re here with our Pediatric Psychiatrist, Tina Gurnani, MD, with insights about how school transitions and other big life changes can impact our kids’ mental health and how caregivers can help support them.

Why Transitions Can Be Difficult for Kids

Children thrive on consistency, predictability and a sense of control. Major changes — whether it’s a new school, a family move or shifting into middle or high school — disrupt this rhythm. Kids often struggle with transitions because they’re leaving behind familiar environments, social safety nets and established routines, which can naturally trigger feelings of anxiety or uncertainty as they enter a new realm.

According to Dr. Gurnani, any transition can be overwhelming for children, especially those with mental health conditions like anxiety and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) where keeping a steady routine is key for children’s well-being.

Dr. Gurnani explains, “It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis if you believe your child has a mental health condition. Transitions are a normal part of life, but a child with an underlying mental health condition can experience change as overwhelming, so the symptoms they already have from their condition are magnified by the stress of the change, whether it’s a new school, a new hometown or a new friend group. Once children start getting treatment and the right support, they will start to feel better.”

Preparing Before a New School, Move or Major Change

Proactive preparation helps make the unknown feel much more manageable. Dr. Gurnani recommends:

• Visit in advance: If moving or changing schools, walk the route together, visit the campus or explore the new neighborhood.
• Maintain routines: Keep daily habits (like bedtimes and meal schedules) as consistent as possible in the weeks leading up to the change.
• Read together: For younger children, read books about moving or starting a new grade to normalize the experience.

Signs Your Child May Be Struggling

Changes in a child's environment often manifest as behavioral shifts. Look out for:

• Physical complaints: Frequent headaches, stomachaches or fatigue with no clear medical cause
• Behavioral changes: Increased irritability, clinginess, aggression or sudden outbursts
• Academic dips: A noticeable drop in grades or a lack of focus in class
• Withdrawal: Pulling away from family activities or previously enjoyed hobbies
• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, nightmares or wanting to sleep in parents' beds.

Dr. Gurnani elaborates, “You might notice your child not wanting to go to school or calling from the school office or clinic to come home from school. We often see kids getting stomachaches, headaches or nausea, when at school — usually triggered by anxiety. Other signs are changes in their energy or motivation, like not wanting to do activities they usually enjoy.”

It’s also important for caregivers to watch out for signs of bullying, which can include any of the above signs and symptoms. “Keeping an open line of communication with your child can help you stay tuned in to what they’re going through,” Dr. Gurnani shares.

How Parents and Caregivers Can Help at Home

Create a stable, supportive environment to help your child process their emotions by showing you’re interested and curious about their feelings. Dr. Gurnani advises, “You can role play with your child to get them to express their thoughts and feelings more openly. Providing appropriate levels flexibility and including them in conversations about what kind of structure they need for things like bedtimes gives them a sense of ownership.”

More tips include:

• Listen actively: Validate their feelings without immediately trying to "fix" the problem. Let them know it is perfectly normal to feel nervous or sad.
• Establish a predictable routine: Create a visual calendar or a structured after-school schedule so they know what to expect each day.
• Foster connections: Help them maintain ties with old friends via video calls or facilitate new friendships through playdates and local activities.

Dr. Gurnani also recommends that parents and caregivers stay active at their child’s school and get involved. “Volunteering at school will foster visibility and help you build strong relationships with your child’s teachers and counselors,” she says.

When to Seek Support from Your Child’s School or Pediatrician

While an adjustment period is normal for children during and after a big change, sometimes professional support is needed. Reach out for guidance if:

• The challenging behaviors or physical symptoms persist for more than a few weeks.
• Your child expresses persistent, overwhelming anxiety or sadness.
• Your child's teacher notes a severe decline in social engagement or classroom performance.

Be a Mindleader: Talk Openly and Build a Support System

The foundation for navigating any life change is open, ongoing communication. By checking in regularly and collaborating with teachers, counselors and your pediatrician, you can build a strong support system that helps your child feel secure, understood and resilient through any transition.

Learn more about supporting our children’s mental health by visiting BeAMindleader.com.