Back-to-School Mental Health Tips for Parents, Teachers & School Staff

Teacher with middle school aged girl, building robot, mental health tips for caregivers and school staff

As the school year kicks off across Connecticut, families and educators alike are facing more than supply lists and bus schedules. Today’s students are managing emotions, navigating social pressures, and adjusting to academic demands — all while recovering from the disruptions of recent years and navigating challenging current events. 

Whether you’re a caregiver in Fairfield County or a teacher in Hartford County, supporting kids’ emotional well-being has never been more important. But equally vital? Supporting the mental health of the adults who care for them — in classrooms, nurses’ offices, and at home.

Amy Signore, pediatric psychologist at Connecticut Children’s, shares practical, timely tips for both families and school professionals to help students feel safe, supported, and strong this year.
 

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For Parents & Caregivers: How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health

Even confident kids can feel overwhelmed by the start of a new school year. You don’t have to be a mental health expert — just a calm, consistent adult.

Try these:

  • Check in daily
    Ask open-ended questions like “What was the best part of your day?” or “What made you feel nervous today?” to spark conversation.
  • Create structure at home
    Predictable routines help reduce anxiety. Prioritize consistent bedtimes, screen breaks, and unstructured downtime after school.
  • Model coping skills
    Show your child how you handle stress — whether that’s taking a walk, doing deep breathing, or journaling.
  • Recognize signs of struggle or bullying
    Watch for persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal, or school refusal. If something feels off, it’s okay to ask for help.

>>Is your child in crisis? In Connecticut, you can call 211 or 988 for emergency or crisis intervention. For free, confidential support, call 1.800.273.8255 or text “HOME” to 741741.

For Teachers, Nurses & Administrators: Supporting Students While Preventing Burnout

You are often the first to notice when a student is struggling. And in doing so, you carry the emotional load of entire communities. Let’s make space for your wellness, too.

Consider this:

  • Create small check-in moments
    A quick “How are you doing today?” in the hallway or health office can make students feel seen and safe.
  • Know what to look for
    Behavior changes, mood swings, or withdrawal from peers may be early signs of anxiety, depression, stress or even grief. Plus, did you know parents should start talking to their children about drugs around 8 years old?  
  • Tap your referral network
    Collaborate with school counselors or behavioral health partners when concerns arise. You don’t have to manage it alone.
  • Protect your energy
    Set boundaries around after-hours communication, take brief breaks when possible, and give yourself permission to unplug.
  • Connect with colleagues
    Peer check-ins, shared gratitude walls, or simple staff shout-outs go a long way in reducing isolation and stress.
     
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Know what to look for: Behavior changes, mood swings, or withdrawal from peers may be early signs of anxiety, depression, stress or even grief

Amy Signore, PhD,
Pediatric Psychologist, Connecticut Children's

Local Resources for Connecticut Families & Schools

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Whether you’re a parent trying to ease your child’s back-to-school jitters, or a teacher managing a classroom full of emotions, the truth is: no one has to do this alone. Let’s make this school year one where everyone — kids and adults — feels supported, seen, and strong.