The start of a new school year often comes with a mix of excitement, curiosity… and yes, a few jitters. Adjusting to a new classroom, a different teacher, and a whole new group of classmates can stir up nerves—or even a little anxiety—in children. This is completely normal.
But when strong emotions take hold, it can be hard for kids to access the strategies that have helped them in the past. That’s where adults can step in and help by tapping into Emory’s memories—the brain’s way of storing and recalling personal experiences.
Meet Emory the Memory Keeper
Emory the Elephant represents the hippocampus, the part of the brain that keeps track of past events and experiences. These are called episodic memories—personal “snapshots” of times when we’ve faced something before and how it turned out. When those memories are recalled, Einstein the Owl in the prefrontal cortex steps in to help use them for decision-making and problem-solving in the moment.
This teamwork means that a memory from the past can give a child confidence in the present. For example:
- “Remember when you started in Miss. B.’s class and you didn’t know anyone? You met your friend Taylor by the end of the first week!”
- “Last year you were nervous about the first day, but you ended up having lots of fun in Mr. C.’s room, especially when he dressed up as different characters.”
These small, specific reminders can be powerful tools to help children settle their nerves.
Timing Matters
Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t seem open to these reminders right away. When Scout the Safety Pup (their amygdala) is “barking,” their brain is in high-alert mode. It’s difficult to hear or process language—even if it’s helpful. Sometimes they’ll need a little time to feel their emotions before they’re ready to hear your encouragement.
A calm presence, a few deep breaths together, or a gentle squeeze of the hand can help quiet Scout. Once emotions settle, Emory and Einstein can step in—bringing helpful memories forward and guiding the child’s next steps.
Why It Works
This combination of emotional calm (Scout quieted down) and memory recall (Emory and Einstein teaming up) gives children the tools they need to face the new school year. It reminds them: I’ve done this before, and I can do it again.
🧠 Try This Simple Strategy: Pause • Ponder • Picture • Practice
- Pause – Take a breath together to calm down.
🐶 Scout the Safety Pup helps quiet the alarm so the brain can think. - Ponder – Remember a time when they felt nervous but got through it.
🐘 Emory the Memory Keeper brings up past experiences to guide the present. - Picture – Visualize that success or imagine how things could turn out well this time.
🦉 Einstein the Head Thinker uses those memories to plan and problem-solve. - Practice – Encourage them to try again with courage, knowing they’ve done it before and can do it again.
🌟 The whole Cranium Crew cheers them on as they put brain power into action!
