The flip of the calendar to August comes with mixed feelings for school-age children and their families. The new school year can be both exciting and cause some anxiety—among caregivers and children. With only a few more weeks to go before the school bell rings for the new year, here are some ways that families can help smooth the transition and ease the anxiety, especially for children who are attending school for the first time.
6 Tips for Preparing for School
- Contact your local school district NOW if you have not registered your kindergarten age child for school. All districts have different calendars and processes for registration.
- Start a bedtime routine. A simple routine can help your child wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. Do this by taking a warm bath, cuddling up with a good book and chatting about the day and talking about what to expect for the next day.
- Attend Open House nights at your child’s school. This will help ease you and your child’s anxiety and give them confidence to start the new year. Also, meeting the new teacher gives you both the opportunity to ask questions.
- Take your child shopping for new supplies. This can help your child get excited by picking out new pencils, a bookbag and lunch boxes.
- Establish a morning routine. Mornings are a high-stress time, especially if you have children you are trying to get out the door on time. Talk with your children about what steps they need to take to accomplish the morning routine. Practice as the first day of school approaches. With young school-agers, consider a picture routine.
- Discuss school with your children. When you are driving or over dinner, discuss what they are excited for and maybe fearful of. By showing your children you are interested in their school and their feelings, you can help them see school in a positive light.
By planning ahead for the back-to-school transition, you can minimize the stress that comes along with it. Having less stress will allow you to have more moments of enjoyment as you and your child go into the new school year. Have a great school year!