Back to School in January: What Kids Really Need

When winter break ends, going back to school in January can feel like a big shift. Kids have been sleeping later, routines have relaxed, and suddenly school is back in full swing. If your child seems tired, a little grumpy, distracted, or just not excited about returning yet — that’s very normal. You know how it is. Winter break ends, and everyone needs a little time to settle back in.

This doesn’t mean anything is wrong. It simply means your child is adjusting.

Expect a “Warm-Up” Period

Most kids don’t jump right back into school mode on day one.

The first week or two might look like:

• Bigger emotions at home

• Extra tiredness after school

• Homework feeling harder than usual

• A lot of “Do I have to go?”

That’s not a problem — it’s part of the transition.

Keep Mornings Simple and Predictable

Calm mornings really do set the tone for the day.

A few small things that help:

• Choose clothes the night before

• Pack backpacks and lunches ahead of time

• Wake up a few minutes earlier so no one feels rushed

• Keep mornings low-key and consistent

Boring mornings are often the best mornings.

Ease Sleep Back In (Gently)

Sleep tends to be the trickiest part of back to school in January.

Instead of pushing hard, try:

• Shifting bedtime earlier by 10–15 minutes at a time

• Turning screens off a little earlier

• Keeping bedtime routines familiar and simple

You don’t have to get it perfect — small changes still help.

Try Different After-School Questions

“How was school?” usually doesn’t get much of an answer.

You might ask the following:

• “What was the easiest part of today?”

• “What felt tricky?”

• “Who did you sit with at lunch?”

These questions help kids open up without feeling pressured.

Support Homework Without Stressing Everyone Out

Homework can feel heavier the first week or two back.

Some supports you can provide:

• Keep homework time short and structured

• Use timers and build in breaks

• Notice effort more than results

• Stop before frustration takes over

Calm support helps learning stick.

Keep an Eye on Overwhelm

Some kids need a little extra reassurance during transitions.

You might notice:

• Stronger emotions than usual

• Avoiding schoolwork

• Trouble sleeping or frequent complaints of feeling unwell

Start with listening and reassurance. If things don’t ease up after a couple of weeks, reaching out to the teacher is always a helpful next step.

From an Educator’s Perspective

As a teacher and school counselor, I see this every January. Transitions take time. Kids don’t need pressure — they need steady routines, clear expectations, and patient adults who understand that getting back into rhythm is part of learning. With support and consistency, most students settle back in naturally.

At Reach Your Peake, I work with students, families, and educators to support learning, confidence, and healthy transitions — especially during moments like this one. January doesn’t have to be perfect. With the right support and a little patience, kids usually find their footing again. If you ever need guidance, reassurance, or extra academic support, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Email me at kim@reachyourpeake.com

Happy New Year!!!