Returning to school after a long summer break can be a challenging time for our youngsters, and at times can result in moodiness, anxiety and grief. The following tips can ease the transition back to school in your household.
Before School Begins …
1. Continue to give your children household responsibilities.
Maintaining small and simple tasks promotes family connection and cohesiveness. Keep in mind the age of your child and what they are capable of. For example, a 6 year old is able to help to set the table whereas a 12 year old can load the dishwasher. Chores should last no more than 10-15 minutes.
2. Limit screen time and make sure your kids are staying active!
This is a tough one. However, too much screen time on the couch can lead to unhealthy habits and obsessive tendencies. Limiting your child’s use will help better prepare them for the more active, engaging pace of school. Help your child “unplug” by finding creative uses of their time such as getting outside and playing catch, learning how to bake cookies, going for a hike or playing family board games.
3. Practice the school routine 2-3 weeks before class begins.
Start moving bedtime back a little earlier each week. Practice setting alarms and waking up earlier. Set out clothes at night before going to sleep. Devise an organized system for packing the backpack and lunches at night, etc. Practice getting up, brushing teeth, eating breakfast and getting out the door within a certain time frame (set a timer and try to beat your best time!). This allows your child time to transition from the less pressured summer routine so they can be most successful and know exactly what is expected of them on the first few days back to school.
4. Prepare for classes.
Don’t save back to school shopping for the last minute! If a list of your child’s needed school supplies has already been sent to you or provided on the school’s website, be sure to gather those items nice and early so you have time to take advantage of any sales and track down items the stores may be out of.
5. Help kids visualize their school environment.
Talk with your kids about school expectations and what anxieties they may have. Make an effort to connect with school staff and other students before the first day of school, do a tour/walk through of the school to help your child visualize being there, schedule a play date with other parents on the school playground if possible, help your child find answers to any questions they might have.
Throughout the School Year …
6. Advocate for your child to be involved in extra-curricular clubs, sports and/or groups.
Staying involved with peers is great for social skill building and gives opportunities for individualized rewards and a sense of teamwork which enhances self esteem.
7. Maintain a consistent homework time.
Once school begins, set aside consistent homework time each day. If your child doesn’t have homework, encourage some practice time anyway such as reading, math flashcards, spelling exercises, etc.
8. Prioritize creating a quiet, stress-free homework space.
Too often, we don’t realize the impact a blaring TV or loud noises can have on concentration. Make sure your child has a quiet, peaceful environment for studying.
9. Offer help with homework if your child needs it.
Provide plenty of support and encouragement, but refrain from giving answers or doing the work for them. Teach your children to become problem solvers!
10. Make a conscious effort to notice what your children are doing well!
Our voices as parents become our children’s inner voices. “You worked really hard on that.” “Show me your best work for the day.” “I am so proud of how hard you have worked.”
11. Stay connected with teachers & school staff, and follow your child’s academic performance.
If your child is a special learner and could benefit from additional support, share these concerns with staff. It may take a minor adjustment that could make the world of a difference for your child’s performance and confidence.
12. Don’t forget to allow your child some down time to unwind at the end of the day.
We all know too well how demanding and fast-paced the world can be. Allow your child time to unwind and take a breather – something we all need! You might label this as “family quiet time.”
13. Keep lines of communication open with your child throughout the school year.
Talk to your kids about bullying and peer pressure and help empower them to take an active role in advocating for themselves and others.
14. Keep it positive, parents!
Above all, remember to maintain an upbeat attitude when talking about and preparing for the transition back to school. This is a busy time but also an exciting time, so be sure to show your enthusiasm and pass that positive energy along to your kids!
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