Back-to-School Without The Stress
The final weeks of summer bring a bittersweet mix of emotions. There's excitement about new teachers, routines, sports, extracurriculars, and goals. But there’s also anxiety, especially if your child struggled last year with motivation, time management, or confidence in school.
At Swoon Learning, we hear from many parents this time of year who are worried about the same things:
“My son fell behind in Algebra last spring and hasn’t touched it all summer.”
“My daughter gets so anxious before school starts, and it sets the tone for the whole semester.”
“We’re dreading the morning chaos and late-night study session battles.”
If any of that sounds familiar, you're not alone. There are supportive, realistic ways to help your child feel ready for the year ahead.
The Summer Slide Is Real. But It’s Not Permanent!
Research shows that students lose academic skills over the summer, especially in math, reading comprehension, and writing. This phenomenon, often called the “summer slide,” can make returning to school even more overwhelming.
That’s why summer school for skill retention has become an essential tool for families who want to give their kids a smoother transition into the new school year, especially when it's done in a personalized, low-pressure way.
At Swoon Learning, our version of summer school for skill retention isn’t about worksheets and drills. It’s about meeting students where they are and reinforcing the foundations they need to succeed. Whether your child needs help catching up or staying sharp, academic coaching can make a noticeable difference come September.
What Back-to-School Stress Looks Like
If your child is showing signs of back-to-school stress, you’re not imagining it.
Common signs include:
Avoiding conversations about school
Trouble sleeping or changes in appetite
Meltdowns over simple tasks
Complaints of headaches or stomachaches
Feeling overwhelmed before classes even begin
These behaviors don’t mean your child is unmotivated. They’re often signs that they’re unsure how to manage what’s ahead. When kids are equipped with the right tools and strategies, they’re more likely to feel ready, focused, and in control.
3 Ways to Make Going Back to School Easier
Here are simple ways to support your child in the final weeks of summer:
Ease back into routines
Start adjusting wake-up and bedtime routines. Rebuild school-year habits one piece at a time, whether it’s setting out clothes the night before, packing a backpack, or reviewing a planner together.Focus on the skills they’ve retained
Instead of emphasizing what they might have forgotten, help your child identify what they remember and what they’re proud of. Celebrating small wins helps them feel capable and encourages a positive mindset before the new school year.Consider Academic Coaching
If your child needs help catching up or staying sharp, even a few sessions of summer school for skill retention can offer the boost they need. Swoon Leaning’s team focuses on executive functioning, learning strategies, and exam readiness.
Why Academic Coaching Works
While traditional tutoring often focuses on a single subject, academic coaching strengthens the skills that power learning: organization, planning, motivation, and self-awareness.
At Swoon Learning, we help students:
Improve time management and study habits
Develop healthy routines and expectations
Reduce anxiety around tests and schoolwork
Discover how they learn best and apply it daily
This kind of support can turn a stressful start into a successful one, and set the tone for a productive school year.
Summer School Just Got an Upgrade
If you’re worried your child isn’t ready for the school year ahead, there’s still time to make a difference. Our Skill Accelerators program is designed to help students feel calm, capable, and motivated before the first day even begins.
Book a free academic coaching today to learn how Swoon Learning can support your family through this transition—and beyond.
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