The school holidays are a time for fun, relaxation, and a little chaos—but as the start of the school year looms, it’s easy for kids (and parents!) to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. Whether it’s meeting new friends, tackling a fresh routine, or simply adjusting to the idea of being back in the classroom, a little mindfulness (and a touch of magic) can go a long way.

Here are 10 tips to help ease the back-to-school transition, build confidence, and encourage positive friendships—all with a sprinkle of fun.

1. Start the Day with a Confidence Ritual

Mornings can be rushed, but taking just a few moments to focus on a positive affirmation can help set the tone for the day. Encourage your child to repeat phrases like, “I am brave,” or “I am ready for today’s adventure.” To make it fun, you can turn it into a magical spell: mix a simple potion with water and glitter, and let them “activate” their courage for the day ahead. Our Heart of an adventurer Brave potion pouch is perfect for helping creating a confidence ritual.

2. Create a Friendship Wishlist

Starting a new school year often brings worries about making friends. Help your child visualise the kind of friendships they’d like to form by writing or drawing a “friendship wish list.” They might include traits like kindness, humour, or shared interests. Add a bit of magic by making a Friendship Potion from our Rainbow Sparkles Mindful magic potion kit—or make your own by mixing some colourful water and sparkles while saying: “I open my heart to new friendships.”

3. Breathe Away the Butterflies

Teaching your child a simple breathing exercise can do wonders for easing first-day jitters. Show them how to take slow, deep breaths in and out, imagining their worries floating away. Add a fun twist by letting them “blow” their anxieties into a potion bottle, symbolically sealing them away or you could turn your left over potion liquid into magical bubbles to blow away. 

4. Create a Magical Workspace

Getting organised for school doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Turn it into a mindful activity by creating a calming, personalised workspace. Let your child decorate their desk with a few “magical” items, like crystals, mini potion bottles, or a favourite charm. A tidy, inspiring space helps them feel prepared and focused for the school year.

5. Go on a Gratitude Garden Walk

Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting focus from worries to positivity. Take a walk in nature with your child and our nature map to collect small treasures like leaves or stones. Together, create a gratitude jar and discuss the things they’re thankful for about school—like favourite teachers, subjects, or the chance to see friends again. These treasures can even become part of a calming potion.

6. Practice Social Scenarios

Role-playing common school situations can help ease social anxiety. Practice things like introducing themselves or asking to join a game. For a confidence boost, pair this activity with a Courage Potion—mix it up before practicing, and let them visualise their bravery into existence!

7. Set Goals with a Wish Potion

A new school year is a great time to set goals, whether they’re about learning a new skill, making a new friend, or simply trying their best. Write down these wishes together and create a Wish Potion by mixing colourful liquids, saying a spell, and sealing it with hope.

8. Pack Positivity in Their Backpack

Packing their school bag can be more than just practical—it’s an opportunity to pack a little magic, too. Add a small note with an encouraging message, like “You’ve got this!” or slip in a tiny potion bottle, charm or crystal they can keep in their bag for courage throughout the day.

9. End the Day with a Mindful Wind-Down

A good day starts with a good night. Help your child wind down in the evenings with a calming bedtime routine, like journaling or reading a favourite story. You can add a Dream Potion ritual by mixing warm water with lavender oil to help them relax and prepare for restful sleep.

10. Celebrate the Small Wins

After the first day (or week) of school, take a moment to celebrate your child’s courage and effort. Reflect on what went well (we have a potion that does this in our Dragon Tales potion kit)—whether they made a new friend, spoke up in class, or simply gave their best effort. Mark the occasion with a Celebration Potion to reinforce their success and confidence for the days ahead.

Embracing the Magic of Mindfulness

Back-to-school doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little creativity and mindfulness, you can help your child feel ready to tackle the year with confidence, positivity, and maybe even a touch of magic. These small rituals provide a sense of calm and control during what can feel like an overwhelming time, creating moments of connection that will stay with them far beyond the first day of school.

Because whether it’s through a thoughtful affirmation, a calming bedtime routine, or a glittering potion, every small step builds their bravery—and reminds them (and you) that they’re ready to shine.