Back to School

With summer drawing to a close, it’s time to start thinking about children going back to school. There are many things you can do as a parent or caregiver to help your child successfully transition back to a daily academic learning environment. 

First, as an educator who is also a creature of habit, I cannot stress enough how important it is for children to establish a routine. During the summer, it’s great to stay up or sleep in a little later than usual, but as it gets closer to the start of the new school year, going to bed early will ensure your child is rested and ready to greet the new day. Have them start going to bed five minutes earlier than the day before so that the change is not only gradual but unnoticeable, too. 

Another helpful hint is to encourage your child to pick out their clothes, help pack their lunch and get their backpack ready for the next day. Getting prepared the night before will likely lessen anxieties and prevent chaos in the mornings. Much like teachers setting the tone for the classroom, parents and caregivers set the tone for how kids approach going back to school. Cherish the time you’ve spent together during the summer, but please be excited for them and their new opportunities for growth as they head back to the classroom. 

Lastly, before your child goes back to school, plan a day where you can share a packed lunch together. Teach them how to open packages of fruit cups, condiments and other items that you may want to send with them. This not only helps them develop their fine-motor skills, but it also teaches responsibility and offers autonomy as well. Being able to remove lids and open food items not only demonstrates independence, it means they’re also able to enjoy their full lunchtime without interruption.