As summer winds down, the Peel District School Board is encouraging families to focus on routines, rest, and mental health to make the transition back to school less stressful for students.
Sleep, stress, and routines
The board advises parents and caregivers to start re-establishing household routines before the first day of classes. That includes gradually shifting bedtimes, cutting back on evening screen time, and introducing calming bedtime habits. They also suggest keeping an eye out for warning signs of stress — such as irritability, headaches, difficulty sleeping, or reluctance to go to school.
Conversations and belonging
Creating space for children to share their feelings about school is another key recommendation. Families are encouraged to talk openly about concerns and ask how their children want to be supported. Orientation days and school tours can help younger students or those entering new environments, like kindergarten or high school, feel more comfortable.
Helping children build a sense of belonging is also important, the board notes. Setting up play dates, joining clubs, and modelling healthy ways of seeking help can all make students feel more connected.
Expanded counselling access
New this year, secondary students aged 16 and older can seek school-based counselling without parental or guardian consent. This change is aimed at making mental health resources more accessible to youth who may prefer to take that step on their own.
Families looking for more information and resources can visit the Peel board’s mental health and well-being website.