Tools, Tips & Heartfelt Support for Back-to-School

At Candlelighters, we know that the Back-to-School season can bring a mix of emotions—excitement, worry, hope, and everything in between. For families navigating childhood cancer, these transitions often come with added challenges. That’s why we’ve gathered a collection of thoughtful, practical resources to help make the return to school feel more manageable and supported—for your child, for you, and for the whole family.

Emotional Wellness & Peer Awareness: Supporting Your Child’s Return to School

One of the most common concerns our therapists hear from children is the anxiety surrounding how their classmates will respond when they return to school. Many children feel nervous about being asked personal questions—such as where they’ve been, what treatments they’ve undergone, or why they have visible differences like scars or an amputation. These moments can feel isolating and overwhelming, especially when all they want is to feel like any other kid in the classroom.

To help ease this transition, we recommend connecting with your child’s teacher early in the school year to share relevant information. When appropriate, working with the teacher to educate classmates in an age-appropriate and compassionate manner can foster empathy and reduce the burden on your child to explain their personal experiences. In some cases, communicating with other parents can also help establish a supportive classroom environment.

At the heart of it all, your child wants to be seen for who they are—not defined by their medical journey. They want to be treated just like everyone else.

If your child is experiencing anxiety, fear, or sadness about returning to school, establishing a positive morning routine can be a powerful tool. Simple practices such as 5-minute meditations, breathing exercises, or daily affirmations can help ground your child and set a hopeful tone for the day ahead.

And if the transition continues to feel difficult, it may be time to reach out to a licensed mental health professional. While school counselors can be a helpful starting point, an outside therapist can work more deeply with your child to identify the root causes of their stress, process complex emotions, and build long-term coping strategies.

You’re not alone on this journey—neither is your child. Candlelighters is here to support your family every step of the way.

If you have questions, need additional support, or would like to speak with a member of our Family Services Team, we’re here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 702-737-1919.

Breathing Exercises for Kids

Guide to 5-Minute Meditation

Tips for leading a meditation with kids:

  • Keep it short and simple.
  • Use a calm and gentle voice: Your tone will help set the mood.
  • Make it fun and engaging: Use imagery that is appealing to kids.
  • Be patient and encouraging: Not every child will be able to focus right away.
  • Practice regularly: Consistency is key to building mindfulness skills.
  • Connect it to their lives: Help them understand how meditation can help them feel calmer and more focused throughout the day.