Health Minute: Helping Kids Ease Back Into School After the Holidays

With a new year and a new semester underway, students across the Valley are heading back to the classroom. While many are eager to see friends and teachers again, the transition back to school routines can be challenging for some children.

According to experts, the post-holiday period, especially in January, can be a tough time for kids. Shorter days, colder weather, and the sudden return to structure can contribute to sadness, stress, or changes in mood and behavior.

Dr. Arianna Howitt with the Kids Mental Health Foundation says the return to a structured school day can feel overwhelming, particularly after weeks of relaxed schedules. She explains that January often brings an increase in symptoms associated with the blues or depression, driven by a combination of environmental and emotional factors.

Dr. Howitt recommends keeping daily routines as consistent as possible while also encouraging kids to stay active and socially connected. Physical movement and interaction with others can play a key role in improving mood.

She also points to a strategy known as behavioral activation, which focuses on encouraging action rather than waiting for motivation to return. The idea is that engaging in activities can help improve mood over time, rather than the other way around.

Parents are encouraged to talk openly with their children about how they feel about going back to school, asking if they are nervous, stressed, or overwhelmed. For younger children, parents may need to help label emotions, since kids may not yet have the vocabulary to explain what they are feeling.

Setting small, achievable goals can also make a difference. If a child is spending a lot of time withdrawn or in bed, a short period of a fun or engaging activity can be a good starting point. Dr. Howitt emphasizes the importance of praise and positive reinforcement, noting that encouragement can help counter depressive feelings.

Experts say paying attention to these early signs and offering support can help children adjust more smoothly and start the new semester on a healthier footing.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.