September is just around the corner, which means families will once again need to prepare themselves in getting their kids ready for school. We already discussed in a previous article on the Daily Crisp how parents and their children can prepare for preschool. However, students of all ages can struggle to get back into the habit of going to and from school on a daily basis. This article provides tips for parents to help their kids get rid of their ‘back to school blues’.
Scout the area
The U.S. Department of Education suggested parents visit the school before classes even start so they can get the lay of the land, so to speak. You can walk or ride with them so they will know what route to take to and from school. Doing so will also allow them to know what key signs to observe, including what the street signs mean, as well as your own rules for them (e.g. do not talk to strangers).
While showing them the route, you can also visit the school to see what it looks like from the inside. It might also be a good idea to have a chat with your child’s teachers so you can have a measure of what they are like and their expectations for the upcoming school term.
Shop together for school supplies
One way you can help motivate your children to get excited for the start of school is to take them shopping with you for the things they need for school. Whether it’s for clothes or school supplies such as books, notebooks, and pens. In a blog post by Tootsa they suggested a number of back to school items for parents and children alike to consider purchasing before their first day back.
Help your child become more organized
Acquiring school items is only the first step. You will also need to help your child become more organized. Younger children in particular need to be taught how to avoid making unnecessary mess. Great Schools provided some recommendations on how you can help your children instil order in their personal space. It also provides a guide on how kids can make sure that all of the things they will need for each school day are already prepared the night before.
Talk to your kids about activities they may want to pursue
Returning to school can mean that kids find they have more opportunities to try out new things, such as playing a particular sport or joining a school club. Talk with your children about their interests and then see if they are in line with the extracurricular activities offered by the school. Encourage them to check out different clubs so that it will get them excited about going back to school.
Get your child’s sleep schedule back on track
Many parents allow their children to stay up late during summer vacation. However, they need to go back to the habit of sleeping early during school nights so they can stay alert during their classes. The National Sleep Foundation lists some tips on how parents can help their children maintain a sleep schedule that is vital before they return to their usual school days.