MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - As summer winds down, the familiar buzz of back-to-school preparation begins.

While many families focus their energy on buying new clothes, binders, and bookbags, mental health professionals say the most critical preparation happens right at home.

Modupe Bajomo, a licensed professional counselor at the Centers for Children and Families, emphasizes that helping children adjust their daily routines well before the first day of class is key to a smooth transition.