Originally Published : September 2025
A new school year can be full of change. It might mean new schedules, teachers, classmates and daily routines. For teens these big shifts can feel intimidating, especially if they are making the leap from junior high to high school.
Teens like to know what to expect, so it’s natural for them to be curious (and even worried) about what the school year will look like. Understanding how your teen feels about heading back to school can help you get them prepared. Here’s what you can do to help your teen get into a healthy routine this fall:
1. Catch some Z's
The amount of sleep your teen gets can affect their mood, behaviour, ability to process information, and school performance. Encourage a consistent bedtime and wake-up time and encourage them to stick to it! Help them to stay as close to it as possible, even on weekends.
2. Put mealtimes on your daily roster
Plan for regularly scheduled healthy meals and snacks to keep you and your teen fueled for the day. Enjoy family mealtimes together and catch up on what’s going on in your teen’s life.
3. Plan ahead
People of all ages do well with routine. Planning ahead can prevent little worries from growing. For example:
- Figure out the route to school and practice it in advance—for some teens, this may involve their first time using public transit.
- Help with priority-setting and planning to balance homework and after-school activities.
- Review school planners, supply lists and information from your school website.
- Take part in welcome-back activities like school tours or orientation events.
4. Check in on their health
Talk with your teen about scheduling routine check-ups like dental, vision, hearing and time with your family doctor.
5. Talk openly
As the school year gets underway, give them space and time to settle in. Regular check-ins go a long way in helping them feel supported. Try using open-ended questions while doing everyday activities—like walking the dog, making dinner or shooting hoops—to invite conversation. Let them know you’re available when they need it—be warm, caring and compassionate. Help them identify other trusted adults they can count on for support.
6. Take it further
If your teen is closing in on the end of their high school years, more changes are on the way. Whether they’re planning post-secondary studies, launching a career, or still deciding their path, new hurdles are ahead like paying bills, dealing with roommates, managing time and more. Ask them what they need to feel more confident about life after high school.
Heading back into the school routine can be tough for teens. Try to be realistic and flexible as they adjust. Every teen handles things differently. If you’re concerned that something is wrong, talk to your family healthcare provider or call 811 to speak with a Registered Nurse for support.
For more information, go to:
- Back to school health
- Sleep: Helping your children—and yourself—sleep well
- Parenting your teen
- Know before you go
- Transitions
