A New School Year, New Routines, and New Opportunities to Connect
As another school year begins across Indiana, students are preparing for fresh classrooms, new teachers, and the excitement that comes with a new beginning. While shopping for school supplies and picking out the perfect first-day outfit can be fun, the transition back to school also brings change, and change isn't always easy.
For many children, returning to school can create feelings of uncertainty, worry, or stress. Those emotions don't always sound like, "I'm anxious." Instead, they may appear as irritability, sadness, withdrawal, anger, difficulty concentrating, or changes in behavior. Every child responds differently, which is why paying attention to both their words and their actions is so important.
This school year also brings a significant change for Indiana students. Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, public schools are implementing a statewide "bell-to-bell" policy that limits student access to personal cell phones and other wireless devices throughout the school day, with exceptions for emergencies, medical needs, and students with accommodations. The goal is to reduce distractions, improve classroom engagement, and create a more focused learning environment.
While some students may initially struggle with being separated from their phones, the change may also provide unexpected benefits. Research continues to show that constant notifications, social media pressures, and the expectation to always be connected can contribute to stress, anxiety, and difficulty focusing. Having a break from those distractions during the school day may give students more opportunities to engage with classmates, participate in learning, and simply be present in the moment. At the same time, it's normal for students to need time to adjust to a new routine, especially if they've relied on their phones for reassurance or connection throughout the day.
As parents and caregivers, we have an opportunity to help children process not only the transition back to school, but also the emotions that come with new expectations. Children's brains are still developing well into young adulthood, so they often process emotions differently than adults. Even when a concern seems minor to us, it can feel overwhelming to them. Validating their feelings instead of dismissing them helps build trust and strengthens the relationship they'll rely on when bigger challenges arise.
Helping Your Child Open Up
If you're looking for ways to encourage meaningful conversations, consider these simple ideas:
Put away distractions and give your child your full attention.
Sit beside them or at eye level to create a comfortable space for conversation.
Talk while doing something they enjoy, like playing a game, taking a walk, or drawing together.
Explain what they can expect before school starts, including both new experiences and familiar routines.
Give your family permission to take it slow during the first few weeks instead of overscheduling activities.
Share your own experiences with feeling nervous or facing change so they know those emotions are normal.
Check in often. Meaningful conversations are rarely one-and-done.
The beginning of a school year is about much more than academics. It's an opportunity to build healthy habits, strengthen relationships, and remind our children that they don't have to navigate life's challenges alone. Whether they're adjusting to a new classroom, new friendships, or a school day without constant access to their phones, your support and willingness to listen can make all the difference.
From all of us at the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse & Suicide, we wish every student, educator, and family a safe, healthy, and successful school year. Together, we can help create environments where young people feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive.
For additional prevention resources, educational training, and tools to support the children in your life, visit www.indianaprevention.org.