It will be “Back to School” Before We Know It!

What is it about the lazy days of summer that before we know it Labor Day is just around the corner and it is time to get everyone ready for another school year?  To make the transition easier on the kids as well as on mom, dad and other family members, the experts offer a few well-thought-out tips. 

First it is important to get everybody back on a school-friendly schedule.  A few weeks before school starts, gradually get the kids to bed a little bit earlier each night.  In the morning, set an alarm closer and closer to the time they will need to get up to ensure everyone is comfortable with the routine.  Waiting to transition to an earlier rising time once school has begun is hard on everyone, and nobody wants to deal with tired, cranky kids. The same goes for getting back into the habit of regular mealtimes. 

Experts also recommend that you “rehearse” your morning routine such as packing lunches, organizing and laying out backpacks, and walking or driving to school.  If you are not doing it yet, this is a good time to start the practice of putting together a weekly calendar for the family.  It can be used to track all of the various activities different members will do each day such as sporting events, music lessons, clubs, etc., and serves as a good reminder for everyone.  You can also include dinner and lunch menus and things like whether the kids will pack or buy lunch. 

     

As the school year approaches, organize a quiet study area for each student.  Once school starts, get into the habit of laying out clothes the night before as well as putting things that need to go with the child to school by the door such as musical instruments or sports equipment.  Place finished homework and permission slips into backpacks.  You can also set the table for breakfast to further reduce the hectic morning routine. 

Getting ready for the school year includes organizing the kids’ wardrobes.  Check to see if there are hand-me-downs from an older sibling and donate things that will not be worn.  Make sure everything is clean and closets are in order.  If the kids do need new clothes, make a list of items to buy before you go shopping.  This keeps everyone on tasks and on-budget and helps to avoid buying things you don’t need.  

School supplies such as a new backpack and pencil case can help get reluctant students excited about going back to school.  Check your school’s website to see if they have posted a list of supplies.  Label everything that will go to school to avoid losing things. 

Experts also offer tips to help children nervous about entering school for the first time or an anxious child who has difficulty adjusting to change.  Their advice is to not dismiss the anxiety but rather help the child manage it.  Try to stay positive and remind them of the things they will be doing they like such as recess, eating lunch at school, walking to school with a friend, etc.  Tell them it will be okay and that as they face the things they are afraid of, it will get better.  Praise them for their successes and let them know you have lots of confidence in them.  If there is something in particular they are most worried about, talk to them about it, and help them make a plan to handle it.     

Starting a new school year is an exciting, but busy time.  A little forethought and preparation can help it go more smoothly for all involved. 

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Source: childmind.org/article/what-to-do-and-not-do-when-children-are-anxious/