BLACKSBURG, Va., Aug. 24 -- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University issued the following news release:

New school years, updated practice schedules, and packed calendars are hallmarks of shifting away from summer for many families.

The season of transition and increased activities results in challenges for both parents and children, according to Paul Springer, a marriage and family expert at Virginia Tech. He offers insight into the root of some of those issues, measures that might help avoid them, and tips on mitigating any that might arise.

Transitions, not just busyness, create stress

Springer said transitions during this time of year can be particularly stressful because families are often shifting rhythms from a relaxed...