As the holidays come to an end and school bags come back out of hiding, families everywhere prepare for a brand-new school year. There’s excitement, anticipation… and often a gentle hum of anxiety. New teachers, routines, friendships, expectations and unknowns can feel big and not just for children, but for parents too.
We’re often quick to focus on how children are coping, yet it’s important to recognise that parents also carry an emotional load at this time of year. You may feel pressure to get everything right, to juggle schedules, to be endlessly supportive, organised and calm, even when your own nervous system is feeling stretched. Please remember you don’t need to strive for perfection. You deserve kindness and breathing space too.
The Emotions for Children
For many children, the transition into a new school year can feel overwhelming. Worries about friendships, confidence, learning expectations or change in routine are common. I remember feeling these emotions deeply as a child, and art became my safe place. It helped me express what I didn’t always have words for and gently built my confidence, something creativity continues to offer children today.
Supporting Kids Through New Year Wobbles
- Normalise feelings – reassure your child that nerves are normal and many others feel the same.
- Create gentle spaces to talk – car rides, bedtime and creative activities help children open up safely.
- Maintain predictable routines to offer comfort and security.
- Encourage creativity -art, journaling or doodling allows emotions to be expressed without pressure.
- Celebrate effort, not perfection – remind them they simply need to try, not “be perfect”.
Don’t forget yourselves!
It is so easy to get caught up so let’s take a quick look at how to help ourselves as parents and teachers too.
- Pause and breathe – even 30 seconds of slow breathing can reset the nervous system.
- Show yourself compassion- speak kindly to yourself. You are learning, too.
- Let go of impossible standards “good enough” really is enough.
- Claim small moments for yourself a quiet coffee, walk, art, journaling or rest.
- Stay connected, talk to other parents; community support matters.
- Use Creativity and Art as Connection, Confidence and Calm
Art gives children a voice when emotions feel confused or big. Creativity supports resilience, identity, and emotional wellbeing. The beautiful thing is it isn’t just for kids. Art can nurture families too, helping everyone feel grounded, connected, and hopeful. Let’s delve deeper with an activity you can do together!
Family Activity: Create a 2026 Vision Board Together
A wonderful way to begin the school year is by making something meaningful as a family. A 2026 Family Vision Board helps everyone dream, talk and emotionally prepare for the year ahead.
How to do it:
Grab a piece of cardboard, Collect posters, magazines, photos, scissors, texters and glue.
Talk about hopes for the year, big or small.
Include goals, fun plans, values, memories, and dreams.
Let everyone decorate freely, no rules, no perfection, just expression.
This simple activity builds connection, reduces anxiety, encourages conversation, and creates a positive focus for the year ahead.
Final Thoughts
As this new school year begins, remember: our children are learning and growing and so are we. With creativity, compassion, calm, and community, we can help the transition feel softer and more supported.
Good luck to your brave little ones, and to you too!
With Gratitude Kerry Evitts
Artist, Mum & Lover of Fun.
