​​The start of a new school year brings excitement—fresh school supplies, new teachers and the hope of new experiences. But by the time October arrives, that excitement can wear off. Children often feel the weight of homework, social pressures and classroom expectations, leading to what's commonly called the “October Slump." Both parents and teachers start to notice changes in behavior and motivation, wondering how to help students stay on track.

During a recent Facebook Live session, Boys Town experts Bridget Barnes, Director of Common Sense Parenting; Courtney Daley, Manager of National Training; and Amber Schramm, Pre-Doctoral Clinical Psychology Fellow at the Boys Town Behavioral Health Clinic, came together to discuss how families and educators can work together to support children during this challenging time. Their insights offer practical strategies for keeping kids engaged and motivated throughout the school year.

The October Slump: What's Happening?

As kids settle into their routines, it's not unusual for behavior and focus to shift. Barnes explained, “Once kids start to feel comfortable in the classroom, that's when some of the problematic behaviors begin to show up."

This slump is not only felt by students but also by teachers. “Grades are due, behavior is shifting and both students and teachers are feeling the fatigue," said Daley. Parents might notice their child becoming frustrated with homework, losing interest in school activities or acting out.

Schramm shared that Boys Town sees an increase in referrals for behavioral health services during this time, as both parents and teachers look for additional support to help kids manage their emotions and focus.

What Parents Can Do: Supporting Your Child Through the Slump

For parents, getting ahead of the October Slump means watching for early warning signs and making small changes at home. Here's what you can do:

• Watch for Signs of Burnout
  Keep an eye on your child's mood and behavior. If they're frustrated with homework, avoiding school-related conversations or acting out, they may be struggling. “Parents know their children best," said Barnes. Early intervention can prevent larger problems down the line.
• Create a Strong Night Routine
  Sleep is critical. “A good bedtime routine helps set kids up for success the next day," Daley explained. To help your child wind down, establish calming activities like reading before bed and stick to a consistent bedtime.
• Stay Engaged with Homework
  Being involved in your child's homework shows them you're there to support them. Create a quiet, distraction-free space where they can focus, and check in periodically without hovering. Showing that you're engaged can help reduce stress.
• Communicate Regularly with Teachers
  Don't wait until parent-teacher conferences to talk about your child's progress. “Keeping lines of communication open with teachers can catch small issues before they become big ones," said Barnes. Regular check-ins help ensure that parents and teachers are on the same page.

What Teachers Can Do: Keeping Students Engaged

Teachers play a critical role in guiding students through the mid-semester slump. Daley and Schramm shared their best tips for managing classroom behavior and keeping students on track:

• Catch Them Being Good
  Focus on the positives. “Catch them being good," Daley recommended. Recognizing and reinforcing positive behavior encourages students to keep doing the right things. This can be as simple as acknowledging when students follow instructions or show kindness to classmates.
• Address Behaviors Early
  Barnes and Schramm both emphasized the importance of addressing behavior before it escalates. “Small problems can become big ones if they go unchecked," Schramm said. Correcting behavior early on helps prevent long-term disruptions.
• Reset the Classroom When Needed
  If the classroom energy feels off, sometimes a reset is necessary. “Taking a quick break for a breathing exercise or a short activity can help refocus students," Daley shared. This gives students a fresh start and can make a big difference in classroom dynamics.
• Consistency is Key
  Students thrive on consistency. Having clear expectations and routines helps them feel secure, which can reduce anxiety and behavioral issues. “Consistency with classroom expectations sets the tone for a positive learning environment," said Barnes. Schramm added that teachers should also give themselves grace and find time to reflect and reset when needed.

A Common Goal: Parents and Teachers Working Together

As Schramm wisely pointed out, “Both parents and teachers want the child to succeed." While the October Slump can be challenging, teamwork between parents and teachers is essential. By keeping communication open, reinforcing positive behaviors and supporting children at home and in the classroom both parties can help students stay motivated and engaged.

Resources for Support

If you're looking for additional resources to help your child, Boys Town offers several programs and services designed to support youth and families:

• Lift with Boys Town​: A program aimed at strengthening families, schools and communities.
• Parenting Classes: Learn new skills and strategies for managing child behavior.
• Center for Behavioral Health: Speak to your Boys Town pediatrician for a referral to behavioral health services.​​