WellPower says back-to-school prep should start with mental health

WellPower is urging families to prepare emotionally for the school year, not just academically, as many parents say the back-to-school season is their most stressful time. The Denver mental health center says small routine changes, better communication and healthier tech boundaries can help children and parents adjust with less anxiety.

Why it matters: - Back-to-school stress can affect the whole family, not just students. - More than 50% of parents with children under 18 identify the back-to-school season as the most stressful time of year. - Emotional preparation can improve confidence, communication and daily functioning as school starts.

What happened: - WellPower, Colorado’s largest community mental health center, released a back-to-school mental health checklist for families. - Casey Wolf, M.D., with WellPower, said parents should prepare children emotionally, not only with supplies and schedules. - Wolf said the goal is not to eliminate every worry, but to help children know they have routines, support and trusted adults they can rely on.

The details: - WellPower recommends resetting sleep one to two weeks before classes begin by shifting bedtimes and wake-up times earlier. - The organization says consistent sleep improves mood, attention, learning and emotional regulation for children and teens. - Families are encouraged to practice the school routine before the first day by waking up, getting dressed, eating breakfast and, if possible, driving to school. - WellPower recommends setting healthy technology boundaries before school starts. - The checklist suggests device-free bedrooms at night and clear expectations around phones and social media. - The guidance says unlimited access to technology can contribute to anxiety, comparison and disrupted sleep. - Families should make time for connection through activities such as a walk, dinner conversation or shooting hoops together. - WellPower says those moments can create safe opportunities for children to share what is on their minds. - Parents should help children identify a support team at school, including teachers, counselors, coaches and trusted staff members. - The guidance says feeling connected to supportive adults builds resilience. - Parents are also encouraged to listen before trying to solve problems. - A judgment-free space can make children more comfortable discussing bigger challenges later. - WellPower says families should seek professional support if sadness, fear, withdrawal or major changes in sleep, eating or behavior persist for several weeks or interfere with daily life and school attendance. - Families can contact WellPower at (303) 504-7900 or visit WellPower.org for behavioral health services for children, teens and families.

Between the lines: - The checklist reflects a broader shift in how schools and families think about readiness. - Academic preparation still matters, but emotional regulation and support systems may be just as important for a smooth start. - The advice also treats technology habits and sleep as mental health issues, not just household rules.

What's next: - Families can begin making small routine changes before the first day of school. - Parents who see lasting anxiety or behavior changes should consider reaching out for professional help. - WellPower is positioning itself as a resource for ongoing behavioral health support throughout the school year.

The bottom line: - A calmer school year can start before the first bell, with sleep, routines, connection and support built in early.