Back-to-school season is full of new beginnings. As families settle into new routines and kids meet new teachers, classmates, and friends, it’s natural to experience a mix of excitement, curiosity, and big feelings. This school year, PBS KIDS is here to help with stories that celebrate confidence, kindness, and the courage to be yourself, from “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood” to the new special “The Day You Begin.”   

Start the School Year Strong

Calm Their Nerves

A new daily routine can bring on the jitters — for kids and parents alike. Try five ways to beat back to school jitters, or if your mornings are the real struggle, learn how to get school mornings without the stress. 

Related: Help your child get ready for the first day of school.

Make a Plan

Planning ahead can make big changes seem less scary. Talk with them about what to expect in the first week. Then talk though setting goals for the new school year — such as exploring a new activity, trying a new way of doing things or making a new friend.

Related: Practice super morning and bedtime routines.

Recharge and Refuel

Learning and playing takes a lot of energy! Here are easy after-school snacks that you can make in 15 minutes or less to help them refuel! And if bedtime’s the harder part of the day, these key principles for helping your child become a good sleeper can help. 

Related: Get ready for bedtime with tips from Donkey Hodie.

When Something Scary Happens

In “Storm on Sesame Street,” Elmo and his friends prepare for a big storm and when it passes, their neighborhood looks different. As Elmo and Abby look for one big way to help, they learn that one little help can make a big difference for their neighborhood. Watch now on PBS KIDS! 

Explore our “When Something Scary Happens” collection for more ways to help your child feel safe and prepared.